What were the Arawak indians?

The Arawak Indians were a group of indigenous peoples of South America and the Caribbean, known for their agricultural practices and seafaring skills. They originally inhabited areas in present-day Venezuela, the Greater Antilles, and parts of the Lesser Antilles. The Arawaks are particularly recognized for their encounters with European explorers, such as Christopher Columbus in the late 15th century, which greatly impacted their societies. Over time, many Arawak communities were significantly affected by colonization, leading to a decline in their population and cultural practices.