THE INDIGENOUS PEOPLES OF
THE AMERICAS
The difference between Tainos and Mayans
In the pre- Colombian period, the Mayans and Tainos more commonly
referred to as the Amerindians. They were nomadic peoples who followed
their food. This accounted in them wandering from Asia into North America.
Some continued to the east and settled in the cold sub artic regions others
wandered southward through North, Central and South America in countries
such as Hispaniola, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Belize Honduras, Trinidad
Jamaica and Bahamas.
The Tainos and Mayans had their similarities and differences. As indigenous
people they were excellent marines who traded beyond the limits of the
Caribbean Sea. In order to undertake their trade, transporting their wares like
cotton, ceramics, crafted stones, knives, axes and tools they made huge
canoes from tree trunks which could hold a capacity of 50 people. These
items they traded with their neighbors.
The Mayans had a more complex trading system, one that included both land
and sea trade. They had a barter system that allowed them to exchange
foods, textiles and minerals. Cocoa Beans were also considered to be the
official currency of the Mayans.
Taino Pottery (Institute of Jamaica)
Taino Pottery (Institute of Jamaica)
Taino Pottery (Institute of Jamaica)
Mayan Pottery
The Taino house (bohio to the left and Caneye to the right).
Atlal-Mayan
Refreneces The Taino Settlement at Guayguata :Excavations in St Mary
Parish, Jamaica