Puerto is a mixture of cultures that includes a history of Native American roots, Spanish conquest and oppression. Puerto Rico has been the property of another nation for most of modern times, creating a large amount of unique cultural elements. All these facets contribute to its brief history.Taino: Puerto Rico was “discovered” by Christopher Columbus on November 19, 1493. It was there that he discovered the indigenous Taino. The Taino were a simple indigenous people. Their main descriptive factors were small size with brightly painted markings and designs covering their bodies. Their dark hair and tanned complexions were undoubtedly the result of the extreme Caribbean heat. Their thatched huts, or bohios, were typically located near water to benefit from hunting, fishing, and farming. Bohios were made from the island's natural resources such as bamboo, grass, tree branches, and mud to hold the materials together. The chief, or cacique, lived in a house located at the south or north end of the village, with all other dwellings distributed around the outer edge. The village center was truly the life of the party housing the square. The square was a place of entertainment used for ceremonies, dancing and all other activities. Perhaps the most famous thing the Tainos are known for today is their use of hamacas, or hammocks! The Tainos were very superstitious and religious people; this is no more evident in their making of Cemis. Cemis were stones carved into the shapes of various animals and people that the Taino believed warded off evil spirits from their crops and brought them good luck. It was believed that these stones housed gods! Hunting, fishing, and farming were the origins of Taino food...... middle of paper ...... role in Puerto Rican culture. The Puerto Rican home is a place to connect with family members, relax and not feel pressured by the outside world. All of this contributes to the closeness of the family dynamic in this wonderful culture. The house is used for many things that American families might leave the house to do. Activities include birthday parties, anniversary parties and maybe even weddings. You might find yourself eating, dancing, singing, and just having an amazing time in a Puerto Rican home. Intermarriage between Indians, whites, and blacks of Puerto Rican descent made Puerto Rican society a mixture of races. Puerto Ricans are generally very festive. people with several events on the calendar filled with dancing, feasting, singing and celebrating! Below are several days during the year that a citizen of Puerto Rico can participate in..