RSSThe history of Puerto Rico is reflected in its art, music, culture and literature. The Arawak and Tainos Indians inhabited the island before the Spanish came in 1493. The Indian tribes had migrated here from North American and Venezuela thousands of years ago, establishing a distinct culture and civilization. Christopher claimed the land for Spain and in 1508 Juan Ponce de Leon founded the first settlement Caparra. The settlement was moved in 1521 eastwards on to a peninsula and since then the island has been called Puerto Rico or Rich Port.
The Spanish ruled Puerto Rico from 1493 to 1898. During this time the indigenous Indian population was enslaved to work on the plantations and slowly dwindled until it disappeared completely save for some artifacts and historical places. After the Indians disappeared, the Spanish brought in slaves from Africa that contributed to the existing culture of the island through music and the arts. Slavery was abolished in 1873, but by then, much like other Caribbean countries, the former population had been integrated into the island’s society. In 1898 Puerto became a possession of the United States and by 1952 was a self-governing commonwealth of the US.
The Spanish left an indelible mark on Puerto Rican lifestyle. The people of Puerto Rican carry their Indian and Spanish heritage through dress, language and lifestyle. During their 400 year reign, the Spanish built cities and towns, fortresses and churches, lighthouses and roadways, enriching island life. Spanish colonial architecture dominates the skyline of most Puerto Rican cities. The Bomba y Peine combines Spanish and Indian music with African dance. Similarly the grotesquely ornate masks worn during the San Sebastian Street Carnival are influenced by the Spanish patron festivals dating back to the 17th century.
The culture of Puerto Rico is similar to that of other Latin American countries, but has a bit zest added to it by the different tribes and former slaves that had lived here over time.
