CARIBBEAN CULTURE

2012

DISCUSS THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE VARIOUS ETHNIC GROUPS TO CARIBBEAN SOCIETY

The history of the Caribbean is rich with adventurous tales, blended cultures, and natural diversity. The impact of colonialism and slavery can still be seen in many of the island cultures today; so much so, in fact, that travellers often note a sense of living with the near-tangible history that permeates the region. Knowing the history of the Caribbean region goes a long way toward understanding its people. Each island has a unique cultural identity shaped by the European colonialists, the African heritage of slaves, and the enduring legacies of the native Indian tribes. This rich history and its lasting influence are set against a backdrop of crystal clear waters and perpetual sunshine. Although not largely written about, Caribbean culture has arguably been preserved more by the authentic voices of “intuitive scholars": artists, farmers, merchants, and traders educationally deprived, perhaps, but quite learned in the cultural heritage of the island nations. They are the region's best oral historians and