This book was published originally in Spanish under the title Ta nos y caribes, las culturas abor genes antillanas.
Francisco M.
It is required reading on the emergence of the indigenous societies of the ancient Caribbean.
The author has the virtue, in turn, to sharply examine multiple topics that include social structures, religion, rituals and beliefs.
Based on diverse primary sources (archaeological, linguistic, ethnohistorical), Robiou Lamarche offers a great synthesis and an in-depth analysis of the Taino chiefdoms and the Carib tribes, explored as a whole, pointing elegantly to their interconnections and their specificities.
Tainos and Caribs marks a milestone in the historiography of the indigenous Caribbean.
Antonio Curet, Curator, Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of the American Indian, Washington, D.
C.
L.
This revision and English edition is well-timed because recent developments reaffirm the composite view of the Caribbean presented in the original publication.
Quite the opposite, he describes them as vibrant and sophisticated.
Notably, Robiou recognizes that Taino and Carib societies were not simple.
It has characteristics that distinguish it from other books on the ancient Caribbean.
I knew this book would become a classic from the moment I read it in 2004.
Sebasti n Robiou Lamarche, Author.
I thank both of them for their wholehearted commitment and devotion in the publication and dissemination of this work.
The complete translation from Spanish was carried out meticulously by my daughter Grace, whose great effort and enthusiasm makes this edition possible.
This English edition reviews and updates the original text and bibliography.
I hope that the English edition broadens the reach of knowledge from anthropologists, historians, archeologists, linguists, artists and others about the Tainos and the Caribs, two Cultures that have captivated my interest and imagination for over 25 years.
The original design of the book was made with great care by my daughter Claudia.
Tainos and Caribs: The Aboriginal Cultures of the Antilles was inspired by those demands.
Since its publication in 2003, it has been recognized as having contributed to a better understanding among the general public of the history of the Antillean Cultures before, during and after the arrival of the Europeans.
Over the years, I have received a considerable number of requests from people around the world expressing their desire that the book be made available in English.
This book was published originally in Spanish under the title Ta nos y caribes, las culturas abor genes antillanas
