Before it was known as Jamaica, the island was called Xaymaca. This name originated from the indigenous Taíno-Arawak people, who were the inhabitants of the island prior to European arrival.
The Original Name and Its Meaning
The name Xaymaca holds significant cultural and historical meaning, reflecting the island's natural characteristics as perceived by its original inhabitants.
| Name | Origin and Meaning |
|---|---|
| Xaymaca | Taíno-Arawak for 'isle of springs' |
This name beautifully describes the island's lush landscape, abundant with rivers and natural springs.
Historical Context
The island of Xaymaca was charted by Christopher Columbus during his second voyage to the Americas. The first Europeans to establish a presence on the island were the Spanish, who arrived in 1509. Over time, the indigenous name evolved phonetically into "Jamaica" as it became widely adopted.
