After reviewing the various multimedia pictures and the readings and the lecture notes – go to the Archive (Plains – see Resource Web Sites to get to the Archive) and review the various pictures and artifacts – then respond to the following questions.
Please comment on some of the differences and sameness you see among the tribes of the Plains in terms of their arts and crafts – that is, clothing, art work, tools, toys, and ceremonial dress? Hint: look at the designs of the quillwork and beadwork, drawings etc… Think in terms of trading, contact with Anglo-Americans – symbolic meanings of designs – materials used – etc… or, anything you note that really catches your eye.
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Conduct a Web search of the Comanche people. This was a great Warrior Society in its day. The Comanche comprised some 16 tribes (bands) at the height of their civilization. Why were they so feared by the USA and Mexico? How were they able to dominate such a large region? What are some of the characteristics of these Warriors? Do they deserve the label that George Catlin gave them as, “Lords of the SoutherenPlains?”
Given the readings and lectures/chats what are your thoughts concerning American Indian spirituality? You may compare aspects of the spirituality to Anglo-American religions or other religions from other cultures. What do you understand as the significant Cultural Values of the American Indian compared to Anglo-American
Hint: pick out a few topics – this is a huge subject matter – but do some analysis and comparisons as well as your thoughts on the topic.
