The cultural fabric and history of Puerto Rico has its roots within theTaíno, African, and Spaniard cultures. The Taíno culture was the first to influence Puerto Rican culture followed by the Spanish culture. The Spanish domination took place during the period of 1493 through 1898. When colonization began under the Spanish empire, exploitation of the Taíno Indians occurred almost instantly.

 

The Taíno's were made the principal instrument of labor, were forced into slavery, which caused the indigenous population to decrease, except for a few who escaped to the mountains. Subsequently, through the intermarriage with the poor Spanish farmers rose the Jíbaro. Between 1500 and 1865, thousands of Africans were brought to the island to substitute for the disappearing indigenous work force. Those events mark a tragic moment in our history--slavery. From 1898 to the present, the Anglo-Saxon culture of domination and imperialism has greatly influenced the Puerto Rican culture. Under United States jurisdiction, Puerto Rico has created a common citizenship, adopting the American drive for organization, and adoption of the Anglo-Saxon culture.

 

Since 1952, Puerto Rico's government is known as the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, "Estado Libre Asociado". This self-governing mechanism allows for Puerto Ricans to have their own constitution although governed by US Government laws. A Governor is elected democratically every four years. Puerto Ricans are United States citizens.

The personality of Puerto Ricans has been described as docile, affected by the development of our character since the early colonization years. Respect and dignity is the base of the cultural system. The interactions of Puerto Ricans are viewed as non-competitive, not a synonym for the lack of ambition. Cooperation is essential in the development of a support system within the community. Puerto Ricans are typically defensive, a characteristic to be considered a consequence of the assimilation process. Tone of speech as well as gestures defines situations. Self-confidence is fostered regardless of socio-economic status. The emphasis on "Machismo" conceptualizes men as the financial provider. Women have the role of maintaining a balance between family and other environments. 

 

 

 

 

 

The cultural traditions include "Pedir el sí" - declaring your love, "Serenatas" - Serenades, "La bendición" - a blessing, "Luto" - dressing in black for a loved one's death, "Vegigante" - Carnival in honor of a saint, "La Candelaria" - a celebration of purification, "El Baquiné" - death of a child, "Nacimiento de un niño" - the birth of a child, "Bautizo de un niño" - Baptism, "La confirmación" - Confirmation, Cumpleaños y aniversarios", - Birthdays and anniversaries, "El día de las madres y padres" - Mother's and Father's Day, "El quinceañero" - 15th Birthday, and the "Navidad" - Christmas.

The cultural mosaic weaves the arts, music, literature, and celebrations. The artisans have created a form to express cultural values and beliefs. The music is a blend of the traditions of the "danza", African rhythms, and rhythms from Cuba and other Latin American countries. The literature reflects the pride for our roots. Festivals and carnivals are occasions to demonstrate unity and pride.