Society and culture of english-speaking countries
The name is derived from its
geographical position and its relation to Columbus' original voyage to the area. 'West'
differentiates from the 'Indies' in South and Southeast Asia.
2. Who were the original inhabitants of the area?
After 500 BC, the Saladoid people migrated from present-day Venzuela to the Lesser Antilles.
Around 650 AD, the Saladoid people were replaced by the Arawak Indians
Around 1200 AD, the Arawaks were in turn succeeded by the Caribs.
3. When and by whom were most of these islands discovered for the Europeans?
1490s Christopher Columbus
4. Which countries colonised this area?
The Spanish and Portuguese arrived in C16. England, France, and the Netherlands began their
conquests in C17. Denmark only acquired a few islands.
5. Which languages are spoken in the West Indies? What is the origin of the people who live
there?
Pidgin is a simplified language that is born out of contact (e.g. trade) between speakers who do
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