Calos

In the 1500s, Spanish explorers encountered the Calusa, a dominant indigenous nation in southwest Florida. Their society was hierarchically organized, with power concentrated in the hands of the king and elite leaders. The Calusa relied heavily on marine resources for sustenance, demonstrating advanced fishing techniques and maritime trade, particularly with Cuba. They constructed complex canal systems in their villages for transportation and protection against flooding. Their religious beliefs included a sun deity and practices of human sacrifice. The Calusa’s cultural connections extended to communities in South Carolina.