Puerto Rico was originally inhabited by the Taino Indians. The Taino Indians came from South America, and inhabited the island of Puerto Rico when the Spaniards arrived. The Spaniards, when they first arrived, called the island San Juan Bautista for St. John the Baptist and the town Puerto Rico. It was not until later that the two names were switched. Puerto Rico meaning rich port. San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico and the most populous city in Puerto Rico. Spanish and English are the official languages, but Spanish is the dominant language of the island. English is required in government matters, and English is spoken in all tourist areas.
The people of Puerto Rico represent a cultural and racial mix. The Spanish forced the natives into slavery and the indigenous population was essentially demolished. The natives married with the poor Spanish farmers. This is called miscegenation and the offspring of the natives and Spanish were called jibaros. African slaves and other ethnic groups brought to work on the plantations helped make up the island's ethnic mix. French families migrated to the island from Louisiana and Haiti. Scotland and Ireland natives migrated over due to government changes and revolutions hoping for a better life. The United States acquired the island in 1898 adding American culture to the mix as well. …show more content…
When people are introduced to Puerto Ricans they are greeted with a usual handshake. However, natives always greet friends and family hello or goodbye with a kiss on the cheek or a combination of a hug and kiss. This happens between females and between men and women, but not between males. Puerto Ricans are best known by their lively hand and facial gestures. Puerto Ricans primarily practice Catholicism. Although they are not as likely to adhere to traditional masses as some do in other countries. They enjoy lively
The people of Puerto Rico represent a cultural and racial mix. The Spanish forced the natives into slavery and the indigenous population was essentially demolished. The natives married with the poor Spanish farmers. This is called miscegenation and the offspring of the natives and Spanish were called jibaros. African slaves and other ethnic groups brought to work on the plantations helped make up the island's ethnic mix. French families migrated to the island from Louisiana and Haiti. Scotland and Ireland natives migrated over due to government changes and revolutions hoping for a better life. The United States acquired the island in 1898 adding American culture to the mix as well. …show more content…
When people are introduced to Puerto Ricans they are greeted with a usual handshake. However, natives always greet friends and family hello or goodbye with a kiss on the cheek or a combination of a hug and kiss. This happens between females and between men and women, but not between males. Puerto Ricans are best known by their lively hand and facial gestures. Puerto Ricans primarily practice Catholicism. Although they are not as likely to adhere to traditional masses as some do in other countries. They enjoy lively