Caribbean Studies and Human Origins

Vocabulary flashcards based on lecture notes covering theories of human origin, indigenous Caribbean civilizations (Taino and Kalinago), Caribbean geography, and map features.

Alien Theory

The speculation or belief that life came from or was influenced by aliens.

SIA (Super Intelligent Agent)

The theory that the universe and living things were designed and created by an intelligent creator or designer.

Big Bang Theory (BBT)

The theory that the universe began from a tiny, hot, dense expanding point and formed stars, planets, and galaxies.

Out of Africa Theory (OOA)

The theory that early humans evolved or originated in Africa and then migrated to other parts of the world.

Ape Evolution

The theory that humans evolved from ape-like ancestors over millions of years.

Biblical Perspective

The belief based on religious texts like the Book of Genesis that humans, starting with Adam and Eve, were created directly by God.

Mermaid Theory

A mythological, non-scientific idea appearing in folklore and stories from many cultures suggesting humans are connected to human-like beings.

Hunter-gatherers

People who followed animals and moved elsewhere when food became scarce.

Caribbean Identity

The shared culture of Caribbean people influenced by African, European, Indigenous, and Asian cultures, including music, food, and religion.

Taino

Peaceful people and excellent farmers who lived in large villages called yacayeques located in the Greater Antilles.

Kalinago (Caribs)

More warlike people who were skilled sailors, strong canoe builders, and lived in smaller settlements in the Lesser Antilles.

Cacique

The leader of a Taino village responsible for making decisions, settling disputes, and leading ceremonies.

Nitaíno

The group of nobles and advisers within Taino political organization.

Bohique

The priest or healer in Taino society.

Naborias

The workers or common people in Taino society.

Zemis

The spirits or gods in Taino religious beliefs.

Coaybay

The place where spirits went after death according to Taino belief.

Greater Antilles

A subdivision of the Caribbean including Cuba, Jamaica, Haiti, Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico.

Lesser Antilles

Smaller islands of the eastern Caribbean, including places like Dominica and St. Vincent.

Bahamas

A group of islands located north of Cuba.

Mainland Territories

Territories including Belize, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana.

Compass Rose

A map feature that shows directions.

Scale

A map feature that shows distance.

Legend/Key

A map feature that explains symbols.

Physical Map

A map type that shows natural features.

Political Map

A map type that shows countries and boundaries.