War In Caribbean Sea
Hello, my name is Wilfredo. This is my first piece of writing. This story delves into the interactions between Europeans and the Taino, who are my ancestors and part of my heritage. I am aware that some of you may be familiar with Puerto Rican history. I proudly identify as Boricua, and that's why I'm sharing the remarkable aspects of Taino culture.
In the year 1491 A.D., within the kingdom of Spain, a man harbored an ardent desire to embark on an exploration of the New World. This man, identified as Christopher Columbus, sought the formal permission of the reigning monarchs, the King and Queen, to initiate a journey in pursuit of the undiscovered lands and their riches, notably gold. The King of Spain, in recognition of Columbus's aspirations, duly granted the requisite authorization.
Following this official approval, Columbus proceeded to convene a crew at a local establishment, employing the setting to recruit individuals willing to join him on the impending maritime expedition. Together, they meticulously assembled vital provisions, encompassing sustenance, resources, weaponry, armor, and other essential materials, diligently preparing for their momentous journey to the New World.
In the expanse of the Caribbean Sea Islands, a significant populace of approximately 600,000 Taino people established their residence. Revered for their opulence in gold, exceptional prowess in the art of warfare, and possession of a clandestine city holding treasures accumulated over centuries, the Taino Tribe found its leadership in Chief Agüeybanà, an esteemed kasiké of the Caribbean Sea. Bedecked in helmets adorned with gold masks complementing their visages, and distinctive garments encircling their hips, the Taino warriors brandished extraordinary weaponry. These included long spears crafted from wood with sharp gold points, coupled with substantial bows and extended arrows secured on their backs. Their adornments further included necklaces featuring gold sun pendants. Trained from infancy to evolve into formidable warriors, the Taino people held deep veneration for their leaders, particularly Agüeybanà. Noteworthy was Agüeybanà's choice to traverse the earth rather than assuming a regal throne, emblematic of his commitment to aiding and serving his people.
On board the vessel, Christopher Columbus found himself facing the challenges of an arduous sea voyage. The entire crew, fatigued and weakened by the relentless demands of the ocean, struggled to endure months of tumultuous conditions. Amidst the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, Columbus meticulously examined the map and compass, seeking guidance for their navigational course.
Gold City
Observing the prevailing circumstances, Columbus issued a command to the sailors, directing a change in their heading. "Keep heading further west!" he ordered. A resolute acknowledgment of "Aye, sir!" echoed through the ship as a sailor promptly conveyed the instruction. Seizing the substantial wooden wheel, the sailor adeptly adjusted the ship's course, steering it to the right before skillfully halting the wheel. The vessel now set its course towards the Caribbean Sea, marking the continuation of their journey, with two more months left until the culmination of an eight-month-long expedition away from the shores of Europe.
2 months has passed
In the annals of history, they finally arrived on the island, greeted by the exuberant cheers of the crews who joyously leaped from the ship into the inviting waters. Christopher Columbus, the stalwart explorer, beckoned a select group of companions – a priest, sailors, and soldiers – to join him on the boat, while the remainder followed closely on other vessels. As their feet touched the sandy shores, a mysterious hush fell upon the island.
"Why is it so quiet?" queried the inquisitive priest, breaking the stillness. Columbus, gazing thoughtfully at the serene surroundings, replied, "I don't know, maybe they don't notice us coming." With these words, he knelt on the sacred island, prompting a contemplative silence among the assembled.Columbus, rising from his reverent posture, ventured into the lush forest, the intrigued party trailing in his wake. Their journey through the verdant expanse unveiled an array of fantastical creatures unseen in the realms of Europe – parrots adorned in vibrant plumage, sagacious iguanas, iridescent insects, and avian wonders with resplendent colors. The allure of these creatures compelled them to collect specimens, destined to impress the distant King and Queen.
Deciding to explore other islands in search of new wonders, Columbus led the way, leaving behind the mysteries of the first discovered land. Meanwhile, Chief Agüeybanà, forewarned by mystical omens, took decisive action to protect his people. He instructed his soldiers to survey the surroundings and directed builders to fortify the island with walls and defenses.
"Like right now, I must warn them that something will happen to our people," declared Agüeybanà, urgency in his voice. The leader builder, acknowledging the gravity of the situation, rallied the workers with a fervent "Boria!" They swiftly cut woods and fashioned them into walls and spikes, creating a formidable defense.
The progress, once completed, earned the approval of Agüeybanà. "Good work!" he commended the builders. The following day, the Taino people gathered at the plaza, summoned by their esteemed Kasiké. Expressing gratitude for their presence, Agüeybanà addressed the ominous prophecy revealed by a Fortune Teller.
"We don't know when strange people will invade our island and take our people and gold for money," warned Agüeybanà. "We have to protect our family and values! We have to welcome them... however, if they start violence or steal. We will fight! We must kill them or put them back the boats!" The resounding chant of "Long live the kasiké!" echoed through the plaza, and Agüeybanà, visibly concerned for his people, asserted their identity.
"Taino! We are Taino! We fight for our people, our culture, our land, our legacy!" Agüeybanà declared, prompting a thunderous response from a thousand warriors pounding their spears on the ground. "You all Taino are welcome to join us to fight against them," he proclaimed, inspiring cheers of solidarity among the Taino people.
The 2nd Chapter coming soon!
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