Taino Culture and History

The video explores the Taino people, the first indigenous group encountered by Columbus in 1492. It covers their society, which was matrilineal, with women holding significant roles. The Tainos were polytheists, with religious practices involving semis and ceremonies led by kassiks. Their lifestyle included games like Batu and cultural practices such as using hammocks and tobacco. The Taino population drastically declined due to European contact, leading to enslavement, disease, and massacre.

Who were the first indigenous people Columbus encountered in the New World?

• The Mayans

• The Incas

• The Taino

• The Aztecs

Which subgroup did the Taino belong to?

• Maya

• Aztec

• Arawak

• Inca

What was the basis of Taino society?

• Patrilineal system

• Matrilineal system

• Feudal system

• Caste system

How did the Taino perceive the Europeans upon first contact?

• As fellow islanders

• As traders

• As godlike figures

• As enemies

What was the Taino's version of heaven called?

• Elysium

• Nirvana

• Valhalla

• Koiaba

What were the small statues representing Taino gods called?

• Totems

• Effigies

• Semis

• Idols

What was the Taino ball game called?

• Batu

• Pelota

• Pok-a-tok

• Ulama

Which of the following was NOT part of the Taino diet?

• Fish

• Manatees

• Lizards

• Cows

What was the estimated Taino population before European contact?

• 2 to 3 million

• 5 million

• 1 million

• 500,000

What percentage of the Taino population died within 25 years of Columbus's arrival?

• 10-20%

• 30-40%

• 80-90%

• 50-60%