West Indies or the Caribbean is an archipelago, between the North and the South America, which separates the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico, from Atlantic Ocean. It includes areas of the Greater Antilles, the Lesser Antilles and the Bahamas.There are about 7000 Islands in the Caribbean, which are mostly mountainous with several active volcanoes. Climate is warm and hurricanes occur frequently. There are also many islands with fresh water and animals.Native populations of the West Indies were numerous tribes of Caribs, Arawaks and Ciboney. The oldest remains of human settlements are older than five-thousand years. The Caribbean islands were perfect for pirate actions. There are numerous small islands and many shallow waters. Pirates, who knew area well, could easily hide or attack quickly.
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