Introduction to this special issue of Lingua explores the role of language contact and substrate influence in the formation of the Surinamese creoles, as well as the issues they raise for theories of contactinduced change and creole formation in particular. The seven related creole languages spoken in Suriname - Sranan Tongo, Aluku or Boni, Kwinti, Ndyuka or Okanisi, Pamaka, Matawai, and Saamaka - are a unique test case for such exploration.