Around 500 BC, the Canary Islands began to be settled by Berber groups from North Africa. This event marks the beginning of the pre-Hispanic period in the archipelago. The Berbers, later known as Guanches in Tenerife and by other names on different islands, brought with them their culture, language, and agricultural practices. The arrival of these first settlers was facilitated by the use of rudimentary boats and knowledge of maritime currents. This initial settlement had a lasting impact on the islands' history, as it established the cultural and social foundations that endured until the arrival of Europeans in the 15th century. The adaptation to a diverse insular environment and the creation of organized societies are a testament to these peoples' ability to thrive in a new habitat.
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Pre-Hispanic Era All islands Migration