Native American
Every November, National Native American Heritage Month is celebrated across the United States, highlighting the traditions, languages, and histories of Native American communities.
Historical Background: The roots of National Native American Heritage Month trace back to the early 20th century. Over time, individual states recognized American Indian Day, with the President designating November as "National American Indian Heritage Month" in 1990. Today, this observance is known as National Native American Heritage Month and has evolved into a month-long celebration.
Native American culture is rich with unique traditions, symbols, and ways of life that reflect a deep respect for nature and community. The bison was essential to many Native American tribes on the plains, providing food, clothing, and shelter. Once numbering in the millions across North America, bison populations declined dramatically due to hunting and westward expansion, leaving only about 512 by 1889. Thanks to conservation efforts, bison numbers have rebounded to around 500,000 today.
Native Americans depended on natural resources like fish (trout and sturgeon) and hunted animals such as bison, bears, deer, and elk. They observed the behavior of animals and used this knowledge to develop their own ways of life. For tools, the tomahawk, a small axe originally made with a stone head, was used for various purposes, from hunting to combat.
In agriculture, the 'Three Sisters'—corn, beans, and squash—were major staples and were always grown together.
The different types of Native American dwellings also reflected respect for the environment. Tribes in warmer climates, like the Northeast, used the wigwam, a dome-shaped shelter made of tree saplings and bark. In contrast, Plains tribes used the tepee, a portable, cone-shaped tent ideal for life.
Native American art and craftsmanship are other important parts of their culture. moccasins, traditional footwear crafted from soft leather, were often decorated with beadwork, quillwork, and embroidery, making each pair unique.
In addition to spoken language, some tribes used smoke signals to send messages over long distances. These signals could let others know about events or dangers, helping to keep communities connected.
In the Pacific Northwest, tribes are known for their wood carvings, particularly totem poles. These intricate poles often tell stories of family ancestry, celebrating important figures, animals, and events. Similarly, quillwork, an art form using dyed porcupine quills, was used to decorate clothing and objects.
Modern life of the Native American: Two prominent Native Americans who have made significant contributions to both culture and society are Deb Haaland and Louise Erdrich. Deb Haaland, a member of the Laguna Pueblo tribe, made history in 2018 as one of the first Native American women elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. Louise Erdrich, an award-winning author from the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians, has written novels exploring Native American life and culture, bringing more understanding and visibility to Native stories.
Today, Native American leaders, artists, and activists work to preserve these traditions while adapting to modern life, keeping their heritage alive for future generations. Through understanding and appreciating these traditions, we gain a richer perspective on Native American culture and its enduring impact on our world.
“The Story of Hiawatha" by Winston Stokes is an adaptation of the well-known poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, likely written in the early 20th century. Read: The Story of Hiawatha. Project Gutenberg is a library of over 70,000 free eBooks.
New Words:
Moccasins: Moccasins are the footwear of many indigenous people of North America; moreover, hunters, traders, and European settlers wore them.
Smoke Signals: The smoke signal is one of the oldest forms of long-distance communication. It is a form of visual communication used over a long distance by Native America tribes.
Tomahawk: A tomahawk is a type of single-handed axe. It traditionally resembles a hatchet with a straight shaft.
Totem poles: Totem poles are monumental carvings found in western Canada and the northwestern United States.
Wigwam: A wigwam is a semi-permanent domed dwelling formerly used by certain Native American tribes.