Samuel M. Wilson is professor and chairman of the department of anthropology at the University of Texas, Austin. He is the author of several books, most recently The Prehistory of Nevis, and editor of The Indigenous People of the Caribbean.

'Wilson offers a well-organised, well-written and timely study of Caribbean archaeology that underscores the dynamic and diverse nature of Caribbean societies before and after the arrival of Europeans.' New West Indian Guide

• 1. Introduction; 2. The first human colonization of the Caribbean; 3. The Saladoid phenomenon; 4. The Taino; 5. The Caribbean on the eve of European contact; 6. The Caribbean after the arrival of Europeans; 7. Conclusions.

Samuel M. Wilson is professor and chairman of the department of anthropology at the University of Texas, Austin. He is the author of several books, most recently The Prehistory of Nevis, and editor of The Indigenous People of the Caribbean.

'Wilson offers a well-organised, well-written and timely study of Caribbean archaeology that underscores the dynamic and diverse nature of Caribbean societies before and after the arrival of Europeans.' New West Indian Guide

• 1. Introduction; 2. The first human colonization of the Caribbean; 3. The Saladoid phenomenon; 4. The Taino; 5. The Caribbean on the eve of European contact; 6. The Caribbean after the arrival of Europeans; 7. Conclusions.