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Dispelling myths, answering questions, and stimulating thoughtful avenues for further inquiry, this highly absorbing reference provides a wealth of specific information about over 200 North American Indian groups in Canada and the United States. Readers will easily access important historical and contemporary facts about everything from notable leaders and relations with non-natives to customs, dress, dwellings, weapons, government, and religion. This book is at once exhaustive and captivating, covering myriad aspects of a people spread across a continent.
Divided into ten geographic areas for easy reference, this work illustrates each Native American group in careful detail. Listed alphabetically, starting with the tribal name, translation, origin, and definition, each entry includes significant facts about the group’s location and population, as well as impressive accounts of the group’s history and culture. Bringing entries up-to-date, Barry Pritzker also presents current information on each group’s government, economy, legal status, and land holdings. Whether interpreting the term “tribe” (many traditional Native American groups were not tribes at all but more like extended families) or describing how a Shoshone woman served as a guide on the Lewis and Clark expedition, Pritzker always presents the material in a clear and lively manner.
In light of past and ongoing injustices and the momentum of Indian and Inuit self-determination movements, an understanding of Native American cultures as well as their contributions to contemporary society becomes increasingly important. A magnificent resource, this book liberally provides the essential information necessary to better grasp the history and cultures of North American Indians.
A Native American Encyclopedia: History, Culture, and Peoples
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This collection of 146 stunning colorplates shows turquoise in the context in which it is worn and used today. Images depict Native American rituals, daily life, pow-wows, rodeas, portraits, and the landscape and ruins of the Southwest, as well as some of the finest pieces made in the last 50 years.
Turquoise Trail: Native American Jewelry and Culture of the Southwest
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Do doctors use Native American medicine sticks? Are they part of the surgical equipment used? Perhaps you have these questions. By reading this quick overview on Native American medicine sticks and their purpose in the tribal society, you’ll obtain a much better understanding and perspective on them.
Medicine sticks are one of the more fascinating artifacts and tools used by Native Americans. Brave warriors use the medicine stick for important reasons. It is said that when a warrior uses one. he can avoid being hurt in battle. The symbolic meanings and spiritual elements that govern the unique traditions and beliefs of the Native American people are well shown in the medicine stick.
These unique items are made of the traditional materials used in Native American crafts. Medicine sticks are constructed of wood which is carved and then wrapped with leather and adorned with feathers and fur. Many times the craftsman will attach a small medicine bag. These items represent the essential interconnection of the human world to nature and how nature affects mankind.
Of the many uses of the Native dance stick, praying, dancing and medicibal purposes mark the most important. The medicine stick is crafted in such a way that many can appreciate the beauty and history of this unique artifact. For those who like unique rustic items with a very unique style, a medicine stick is great as home décor. It is best to purchase an authentic medicine stick from a Native American craftsman. The value of an authentic medicine stick comes from the close attention to details.
Over time, many people have become interested in Native American crafts. The medicine stick is packed with symbolism regarding the culture, people and the environment in which the tribal people live. The spiritual connection with the environment and the harnessing of spiritual elements attracts many people as they learn to appreciate the Native American people. If you desire to become a part of the culture of these unique people, the medicine stick is a great piece to use as an accent for your home. Many will admire your authentic Native American medicine stick and the story behind it.
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