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Bahamas

known as manioc to make bread. Life was relatively easy in the islands, so the Lucayans had time enough to develop various skills and crafts. They became expert weavers, making hammocks and clothing to trade with the residents of neighboring islands. They were also accomplished boat builders and carvers. They learned to make pottery, ropes, and even rugs.

Words to Understand in this Chapter

amnesty— a pardon given by a government or government official, usually to a large group of people. cannibalistic— having the inclination to eat the flesh of other human beings. clan— a group of people descended from a common ancestor. founder— to become disabled or sink. galleons— large Spanish ships used for trade or warfare during colonial times. Loyalist— one who is loyal to a particular cause, especially an American who favored the British crown during the Revolutionary War era. ne’er-do-wells— idle or worthless people. Orient— the Far East, including China and Japan. privateer— a ship armed and licensed by a government to attack and plunder enemy ships; or a captain or sailor on such a ship. salvager— one who recovers valuable commodities from wreckages and ruins. subsistence farmers— farmers who grow enough only to feed their families, with no surplus crops that can be sold. wrecker— in the history of the Bahamas and the Caribbean, one who lured ships toward the shore in order to wreck them and plunder their cargo.