Geo Locations

 The First Peoples’ - Geographical Locations

Trinidad has a rich history of Amerindian presence that spans over 8000 years. In contrast, Tobago's Amerindian history takes on a significantly different form. Settlements in Tobago can be traced back to a period between 3500BC and 1000BC, marking a unique and fascinating history. Trinidad has a rich history of Amerindian presence that spans over 8000 years. In contrast, Tobago's Amerindian history takes on a significantly different form. Settlements in Tobago can be traced back to a period between 3500BC and 1000BC, marking a unique and fascinating history.

The islands have yielded dozens of Amerindian settlements through excavations. In Trinidad, some of the significant ones are Palo Seco, Ortoire, Banwari Trace, the Red House, Princes Town and Moruga Road. Tobago, too, has a fair share of its own, including Bon Accord, Milford, Mount Irvine and Courland.

Based on historical records, it is estimated that the Amerindian population of Trinidad was as high as 200,000 at the time of Christopher Columbus' arrival in 1498. However, this number was later revised to 40,000 in 1595. The Amerindian population comprised of eight (8) ethnic groups belonging to three different language families, including the Waraowitu and Chaguanes who spoke Warao, the Aruaca and Shebaio who spoke Arawak, as well as the Nepuyo, Carinepagoto, Yao, and Kalina, who spoke the Carib language. Archaeological evidence suggests that the Kalina people most likely inhabited Tobago.

Despite the significant decline in population numbers caused by European colonialism over the past centuries, Trinidadians of full or partial Amerindian heritage continue to thrive in the Toco/Cumana area, Arima, and Siparia. Traditional Carib families, with surnames such as Calderon, Hernandez, Campo, and Lopez, have survived to this day, showcasing the resilience and strength of their cultural heritage.

Amerindian influence on our society is undeniable, as evidenced by the prevalence of their place names and cultural dishes. Tapana (Brasso Seco), Aripo Mountains, Tamana Caves, Caroni swamp and Ortoire rivers are just a few examples of geographical features named by Amerindians. In addition, many towns and villages bear Amerindian names, including Arima, Paria, Salybia, Caura, Arouca, Tacarigua, Chaguanas, Carapichaima, Couva, Mucurapo, Guayaguayare, and Mayaro. Their heritage continues to enrich our country today.

 

It is a well-known fact that many of our towns, villages and roads in Trinidad and Tobago are built on ancient Amerindian settlement sites, including part of our road system. For instance, Tumpuna Road in Arima and a section of the Siparia-Quinam Road were built on old Amerindian trails. Moreover, recent findings indicate that the Red House, which is a significant heritage site, was constructed on an ancient Amerindian burial ground. The site is used for the annual "Smoke Ceremony," a tradition that pays tribute to our ancestors and their rich history.