Columbus greatly affected the Taino and their way of life in a cruel way. Before Columbus discovered the Taino land, on the Caribbean Island, they were happy with their way of life. They were skilled and creative people. One admirable thing they created was a hammock, which the Taino used for a comfortable night’s rest. They also were involved in trade. Many Taino were excellent sailors, canoe makers, and navigators. The Taino were the first Native Americans to encounter the Spanish. Columbus viewed the Taino as a way to accumulate his personal wealth. He selected many Taino and exported them to Spain as slaves. By 1497, most of the Native Americans died of starvation, European diseases, and Spanish brutality. Taino that were left behind were forced to search for gold mines and on plantations. Within 100 years of Columbus’s arrival, the Taino population was practically wiped out. In all, many people think Columbus is a brave sea captain who “discovered America”. But, from the Native American’s point of view Columbus was a selfish individual who cared only about his personal wealth. Columbus’s voyages benefited Spain, but brought much misery to the world of the Taino. …show more content…
(n.d.). Indians 101: Columbus and the Taíno. Retrieved October 01, 2016, from http://www.dailykos.com/story/2011/06/11/984238/-Indians-101-Columbus-and-the-Ta-no History.com Staff. (2009). Columbus Controversy. Retrieved October 01, 2016, from