The northeastern part, named Marien, was under the rule of Guacanagari, whose headquarters were near the abandoned La Navidad.

The remaining eastern part of the island, called Higuay, was under a chief named Cotabanama.

The western province was Xaragua, governed by one Behechio, whose sister, Anacaona, was the wife of Caonabo.

The middle of the island was divided into two provinces-that which extended from the northern coast to the Cibao mountains and included the Vega Real being governed by Guarionex, and that which extended from the Cibao mountains to the south being governed by Caonabo.

All these rulers were more or less embittered by the outrages and cruelties of the Spaniards, and all agreed to join with Caonabo except Guacanagari.