1.2 Plateau tribes
12 min read•august 21, 2024
The Plateau tribes of the Pacific Northwest shaped Washington's early history. These diverse groups inhabited a vast region from British Columbia to Oregon, adapting to varied landscapes from mountains to river valleys. Their cultures were deeply connected to the land and its resources.
Plateau tribes developed complex social structures, religious practices, and economic strategies. Fishing, hunting, and gathering formed the backbone of their economies, while extensive linked them to other regions. Their rich cultural heritage continues to influence Washington State today.
Geographic distribution of tribes
- Plateau tribes inhabited a vast region in the Pacific Northwest, stretching from British Columbia to Oregon and from the Cascade Mountains to the Rocky Mountains
- This diverse landscape shaped the cultures and lifestyles of various Plateau tribes, influencing their resource utilization and social structures
- Understanding the geographic distribution of Plateau tribes provides crucial context for Washington State's indigenous history and cultural diversity
Major plateau regions
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- encompassed the largest area, characterized by rolling hills, deep river valleys, and semi-arid climate
- in northeastern Washington featured mountainous terrain and numerous lakes
- region in southeastern Washington and northeastern Oregon offered diverse ecosystems from forests to grasslands
- extended into southern Idaho, providing a unique environment for tribes in that area
Tribal territories and boundaries
- occupied a large territory spanning parts of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho
- people inhabited the area around the Yakima River and its tributaries in central Washington
- tribe controlled lands along the and its tributaries in northeastern Oregon and southeastern Washington
- resided in the area surrounding the Spokane River in eastern Washington
- comprised several smaller groups occupying north-central Washington
- Boundaries between tribal territories were often fluid and based on traditional use areas rather than strict borders
Cultural characteristics
- Plateau tribes shared many cultural similarities due to their common environment and interactions, but each tribe maintained distinct traditions and practices
- Cultural characteristics of Plateau tribes were deeply intertwined with the natural world, reflecting a profound respect for the environment and its resources
- Understanding these cultural traits is essential for appreciating the rich heritage of Washington State's indigenous peoples
Social structure
- Extended family units formed the basic social structure, with several families often living together in villages
- Clan systems organized many tribes, with membership typically determined through matrilineal descent
- Social stratification existed, with chiefs, spiritual leaders, and skilled individuals holding higher status
- Gender roles were often complementary, with men primarily responsible for hunting and fishing, while women managed gathering and food processing
- Age-based hierarchy respected elders for their wisdom and experience
Religious beliefs and practices
- believed in the spiritual nature of all living things and natural phenomena
- served as important rites of passage for young people to seek spiritual guidance and power
- purified body and spirit, often conducted before important events or as healing rituals
- marked important transitions in the annual cycle (, )
- Shamans or medicine people played crucial roles as healers and spiritual intermediaries
Traditional customs and ceremonies
- involved elaborate gift-giving feasts to redistribute wealth and affirm social status
- Naming ceremonies bestowed important personal and spiritual identities on individuals
- Marriage customs often involved gift exchanges between families and elaborate celebrations
- Funeral practices included complex mourning rituals and beliefs about the afterlife
- Coming-of-age ceremonies marked important transitions for both boys and girls into adulthood
Economic activities
- Plateau tribes developed diverse economic strategies to thrive in their environment, combining hunting, fishing, gathering, and trade
- These economic activities were closely tied to seasonal patterns and the availability of resources across different ecosystems
- Understanding the economic practices of Plateau tribes provides insight into their sustainable use of natural resources and complex trade networks
Fishing and hunting practices
- formed the cornerstone of many Plateau tribes' economies, using sophisticated techniques (fish weirs, dip nets, spears)
- Seasonal fish runs determined the timing of major economic activities and social gatherings
- Hunting focused on large game animals (deer, elk, bighorn sheep) using bows and arrows or spears
- organized to maximize efficiency in capturing animals like bison on the eastern edges of Plateau territory
- Preservation techniques (smoking, drying) allowed tribes to store fish and meat for winter use or trade
Gathering of plant resources
- Root vegetables (camas, , wild onions) harvested using specialized digging sticks
- Berries (, chokecherries, serviceberries) collected in large quantities during late summer and fall
- Medicinal plants gathered and processed for traditional healing practices
- Bark and plant fibers collected for making baskets, clothing, and other essential items
- Seasonal rounds organized to access different plant resources as they became available throughout the year
Trade networks and relationships
- Extensive trade networks connected Plateau tribes with coastal and Plains tribes
- The Dalles on the Columbia River served as a major trade hub, facilitating exchanges between diverse groups
- Trade goods included dried salmon, animal hides, obsidian, and shells from the coast
- Intertribal gatherings, often coinciding with fishing seasons, provided opportunities for trade and cultural exchange
- Introduction of horses in the 18th century dramatically expanded trade possibilities and cultural interactions
Language and communication
- Language diversity among Plateau tribes reflected the complex cultural landscape of the region
- Oral traditions played a crucial role in preserving history, cultural knowledge, and spiritual beliefs
- Understanding the linguistic heritage of Plateau tribes is essential for appreciating the depth and richness of Washington State's indigenous cultures
Linguistic families
- Salishan language family predominated in the northern Plateau region, including languages (Spokane, Colville, Coeur d'Alene)
- Sahaptian languages spoken in the southern Plateau area, including Nez Perce and Yakama
- Chinookan languages found along the Columbia River, with significant influence on trade interactions
- Ktunaxa (Kutenai) language, an isolate, spoken by tribes in the northeastern part of the Plateau
- Multilingualism common among Plateau peoples due to extensive trade networks and intertribal marriages
Oral traditions and storytelling
- Creation stories explained the origins of the world, people, and important cultural features
- Coyote tales served as both entertainment and vehicles for transmitting moral and practical lessons
- Historical narratives preserved accounts of important events, migrations, and tribal histories
- Seasonal stories aligned with the annual cycle, reinforcing knowledge about resource gathering and spiritual practices
- Storytelling techniques incorporated gestures, songs, and audience participation to enhance memorization and engagement
Tribal governance
- Plateau tribes developed diverse governance structures adapted to their specific needs and environments
- Traditional leadership roles combined practical skills with spiritual authority
- Understanding tribal governance systems provides insight into the complex social and political organization of Plateau societies
Leadership structures
- Hereditary chiefs often held positions of authority, particularly in larger tribes or confederations
- Council of elders advised chiefs and participated in important decision-making processes
- War chiefs selected based on proven leadership abilities in times of conflict
- Spiritual leaders (shamans, medicine people) held significant influence in tribal affairs
- Women's councils existed in some tribes, providing input on various aspects of community life
Decision-making processes
- Consensus-based decision-making prevalent in many Plateau tribes, emphasizing community harmony
- Village or band-level autonomy common, with larger tribal affiliations for specific purposes (war, trade)
- Public discussions and debates held to address important community issues
- Seasonal gatherings provided opportunities for inter-village or inter-tribal decision-making
- Mediation and conflict resolution often involved respected elders or neutral third parties
Inter-tribal relations
- Alliances formed for mutual defense, resource access, and trade purposes
- Marriage alliances strengthened relationships between different tribes or bands
- Intertribal gatherings facilitated cultural exchange, conflict resolution, and collective decision-making
- Some rivalries or conflicts existed, often related to resource competition or historical grievances
- Diplomatic protocols developed to manage relationships between different tribal groups
Seasonal patterns
- Plateau tribes' lifestyles were intimately connected to the changing seasons and resource availability
- Seasonal movements allowed tribes to efficiently utilize diverse ecosystems within their territories
- Understanding these patterns provides insight into the adaptive strategies and ecological knowledge of Plateau peoples
Nomadic vs sedentary lifestyles
- Semi-nomadic pattern common among many Plateau tribes, combining seasonal movements with more permanent winter villages
- Winter villages located in sheltered river valleys, providing protection from harsh weather
- Spring and summer camps established in upland areas to access diverse resources ( grounds, berry patches)
- Fall fishing camps set up along major rivers to harvest and process salmon runs
- Some groups, particularly those with access to abundant river resources, maintained more sedentary lifestyles year-round
Seasonal resource gathering
- Spring activities focused on harvesting early plant foods (bitterroot, wild onions) and hunting migrating waterfowl
- Summer months dedicated to intensive root gathering in mountain meadows and prairies
- Late summer and fall centered around salmon fishing, berry picking, and hunting large game animals
- Winter season involved relying on stored foods, limited hunting, and engaging in indoor activities (crafts, storytelling)
- Ceremonial calendar aligned with seasonal resource availability, marking important transitions in the annual cycle
Material culture
- Plateau tribes developed sophisticated material culture adapted to their environment and lifestyle needs
- Craftsmanship reflected deep ecological knowledge and artistic traditions
- Understanding material culture provides insights into daily life, technological innovations, and aesthetic values of Plateau peoples
Housing and architecture
- Pit houses (semi-subterranean dwellings) served as primary winter residences, providing insulation and protection
- Tule mat lodges used as temporary summer dwellings, easily transported and assembled
- Longhouses constructed in some areas, particularly for communal gatherings and ceremonies
- Sweat lodges built for purification rituals and healing practices
- Storage structures (elevated platforms, underground caches) designed to protect food supplies from animals and weather
Tools and technology
- Fishing technology included elaborate weirs, nets, spears, and fish traps
- Hunting tools featured bows and arrows, spears, and snares tailored for different game animals
- Plant processing tools (digging sticks, grinding stones, baskets) designed for efficient harvesting and preparation
- Hide working tools (scrapers, awls) used to create clothing and other leather goods
- Watercraft (sturgeon-nosed canoes, rafts) adapted for river travel and fishing
Clothing and adornment
- Clothing made primarily from animal hides (deer, elk) and plant fibers (cedar bark, hemp)
- Winter garments included fur-lined robes, leggings, and moccasins for protection against cold
- Summer clothing lighter and more minimal, often consisting of breechcloths and simple dresses
- Elaborate ceremonial attire featured intricate beadwork, quillwork, and fringes
- Personal adornment included jewelry made from shells, bones, and local stones, as well as body painting for special occasions
Impact of European contact
- European contact profoundly altered the lives of Plateau tribes, introducing new challenges and opportunities
- Disease epidemics, technological changes, and shifting economic patterns reshaped traditional lifeways
- Understanding this period is crucial for comprehending the historical context of modern Plateau tribal nations
Disease and population decline
- Smallpox epidemics devastated Plateau populations, with some estimates suggesting up to 90% population loss
- Measles, influenza, and other introduced diseases further impacted tribal demographics
- Population declines disrupted traditional social structures and knowledge transmission
- Some villages and smaller tribal groups became extinct or merged with larger tribes for survival
- Demographic changes altered power dynamics between tribes and with incoming European settlers
Changes in traditional practices
- Introduction of horses in the early 18th century revolutionized transportation, hunting, and warfare
- Firearms adoption changed hunting techniques and inter-tribal conflicts
- Trade with Europeans introduced new materials (glass beads, metal tools) that were incorporated into traditional crafts
- Christian missionaries influenced religious beliefs and practices, leading to syncretic spiritual traditions
- European agricultural practices gradually adopted by some tribes, altering traditional food systems
Fur trade influence
- Establishment of fur trading posts (, ) created new economic opportunities
- Plateau tribes became important intermediaries in the fur trade network
- Increased focus on fur-bearing animals shifted some traditional hunting and trapping practices
- Trade goods (metal tools, textiles, firearms) rapidly integrated into Plateau material culture
- Economic dependencies on fur trade led to significant social and political changes within tribal societies
Treaties and reservations
- Treaty-making process between Plateau tribes and the U.S. government fundamentally altered tribal territories and sovereignty
- Establishment of reservations dramatically changed traditional lifeways and land use patterns
- Understanding this period is essential for comprehending the legal and historical context of modern tribal nations in Washington State
Major treaties with U.S. government
- consolidated 14 bands and tribes onto a single reservation
- resulted in treaties with Nez Perce, Umatilla, and other tribes
- established reservations for Flathead, Kootenai, and Upper Pend d'Oreilles tribes
- significantly reduced the size of the 1855 reservation
- Many smaller tribes not formally recognized through treaties, leading to ongoing legal challenges
Establishment of reservations
- created by executive order in 1872, initially excluding some tribes later included
- established in 1881 after years of resistance and negotiation
- formalized in 1873, significantly smaller than traditional tribal territory
- Some tribes (Kalispel, Lower Spokane) received small reservations or became landless
- Reservation boundaries often arbitrarily drawn, disregarding traditional use areas and kinship ties
Loss of ancestral lands
- Treaty cessions resulted in tribes losing access to vast territories and diverse resources
- Traditional seasonal rounds disrupted by confinement to reservation boundaries
- Sacred sites and culturally significant locations often excluded from reservation lands
- Allotment policy (Dawes Act of 1887) further fragmented tribal lands within reservations
- Loss of land base severely impacted traditional economies and cultural practices
Modern plateau tribes
- Contemporary Plateau tribal nations have undergone significant changes while maintaining cultural continuity
- Efforts to revitalize languages, traditions, and sovereignty characterize modern tribal initiatives
- Understanding the current status of Plateau tribes is crucial for appreciating their ongoing contributions to Washington State's cultural landscape
Contemporary tribal nations
- Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation includes 12 bands from various Plateau groups
- Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation represents 14 originally distinct tribes
- Nez Perce Tribe maintains reservation lands in Idaho with strong connections to ancestral territories in Washington
- Spokane Tribe of Indians continues to reside on a portion of their traditional lands
- Coeur d'Alene Tribe operates as a sovereign nation with reservation lands in Idaho
Cultural revitalization efforts
- Language immersion programs established to preserve and revitalize indigenous languages
- Traditional arts and crafts (basketry, beadwork) promoted through educational initiatives and markets
- Seasonal ceremonies and gatherings revived to strengthen cultural identity and community bonds
- Tribal museums and cultural centers established to preserve and share historical artifacts and knowledge
- Youth programs developed to connect younger generations with traditional practices and values
Economic development initiatives
- Casino gaming operations provide significant revenue for many Plateau tribes
- Sustainable resource management practices implemented on reservation lands (forestry, fisheries)
- Tourism initiatives showcase cultural heritage and natural beauty of tribal territories
- Renewable energy projects (solar, wind) developed on some reservations
- Educational institutions established to provide culturally relevant higher education opportunities
Environmental stewardship
- Traditional ecological knowledge of Plateau tribes reflects centuries of sustainable resource management
- Modern environmental challenges require integration of indigenous wisdom with contemporary conservation practices
- Understanding Plateau tribes' approach to environmental stewardship is crucial for addressing regional ecological issues
Traditional ecological knowledge
- Detailed understanding of plant and animal life cycles informed sustainable harvesting practices
- Fire management techniques used to maintain healthy ecosystems and enhance resource availability
- Water management systems developed for fishing and small-scale agriculture
- Holistic worldview recognized the interconnectedness of all living things and natural phenomena
- Oral traditions preserved and transmitted ecological knowledge across generations
Conservation practices
- Selective harvesting methods ensured the regeneration of plant resources
- Fishing techniques and timing aligned with salmon life cycles to maintain healthy populations
- Hunting practices incorporated taboos and restrictions to prevent overharvesting
- Waste minimization emphasized through full utilization of harvested plants and animals
- Seasonal rounds distributed resource use across diverse ecosystems, preventing localized depletion
Modern environmental challenges
- Climate change impacts (altered precipitation patterns, increased wildfires) affecting traditional resources
- Water rights issues arising from competing demands for limited water resources
- Habitat loss and fragmentation threatening culturally significant plant and animal species
- Environmental contamination from industrial activities impacting tribal lands and resources
- Collaborative management efforts between tribes and government agencies addressing complex ecological issues
Key Terms to Review (44)
1855 Hellgate Treaty: The 1855 Hellgate Treaty was an agreement between the United States government and several Native American tribes of the Plateau region, primarily the Flathead, Kootenai, and Pend d'Oreille tribes. This treaty established a reservation for these tribes in what is now Montana and laid the groundwork for future relations between the tribes and the U.S. government. It reflects the complex negotiations and often contentious relationships that arose as American expansion encroached on Native lands and rights.
1855 Walla Walla Council: The 1855 Walla Walla Council was a significant meeting between U.S. government representatives and various Native American tribes from the Pacific Northwest, particularly those from the Plateau region. The council aimed to negotiate treaties concerning land rights and access to resources, as white settlers were increasingly encroaching on indigenous lands. This event highlighted the tensions between indigenous populations and settlers, illustrating the challenges faced by Plateau tribes in preserving their way of life amidst growing external pressures.
1855 Yakama Treaty: The 1855 Yakama Treaty was an agreement between the United States government and the Yakama Nation that established a reservation for the Yakama people in present-day Washington State. This treaty allowed the Yakama to retain rights to hunt, fish, and gather on their traditional lands while also ceding vast territories to the U.S. government. The treaty is significant as it illustrates the complex relationship between Native American tribes and the federal government during the era of westward expansion.
1863 Nez Perce Treaty: The 1863 Nez Perce Treaty was an agreement made between the U.S. government and the Nez Perce tribe, which significantly reduced their land and altered their way of life. This treaty is notable for its contentious nature, as it was signed under pressure and later repudiated by many tribal leaders. The Nez Perce people, who originally inhabited a large region of the Pacific Northwest, found their territory drastically diminished due to this treaty.
Animistic worldview: An animistic worldview is a belief system that recognizes the presence of spiritual essence in all elements of the natural world, including animals, plants, rocks, and even weather phenomena. This perspective fosters a deep connection between people and their environment, encouraging respect and stewardship for nature. In this context, it influences cultural practices, rituals, and daily life among indigenous communities, particularly among Plateau tribes who see themselves as part of a larger spiritual ecosystem.
Band organization: Band organization refers to the social structure of small, mobile groups of people, typically consisting of extended families or kinship networks, that share common resources and territory. This type of organization is significant for the Plateau tribes as it reflects their adaptation to the environment, emphasizing cooperation and mutual support for hunting, gathering, and resource management.
Battle of the Big Hole: The Battle of the Big Hole, fought in 1877, was a significant military confrontation during the Nez Perce War between the Nez Perce tribe and the United States Army. This battle took place near Wisdom, Montana, and is notable for the Nez Perce's strategic retreat as they sought to escape to Canada while being pursued by U.S. forces. The battle exemplifies the struggle of Plateau tribes against encroaching settlers and government forces during this tumultuous period.
Bitterroot: Bitterroot is a flowering plant native to the western United States and is particularly significant to the Plateau tribes, where it has been a vital food source and part of cultural practices. The plant's starchy roots were traditionally harvested, dried, and used in various dishes, highlighting the deep connection between the Plateau tribes and their environment. Beyond its nutritional value, bitterroot also holds cultural importance, as it features in many traditional stories and ceremonies.
Blue Mountains: The Blue Mountains are a mountain range located in the state of Washington, known for their distinct blue hue due to the presence of certain atmospheric conditions and vegetation. This geographical feature is significant as it serves as a natural boundary and plays a vital role in the ecosystems of the region, particularly affecting the lives and cultures of indigenous Plateau tribes, as well as the experiences of early American settlers traveling westward.
Chief Joseph: Chief Joseph was the leader of the Nez Perce tribe, renowned for his eloquence and his efforts to resist the forced removal of his people from their ancestral lands in the Pacific Northwest during the late 19th century. He became a symbol of Native American resistance and diplomacy, especially during the conflicts between Indigenous tribes and U.S. government forces.
Chiefdoms: Chiefdoms are a form of political organization that is more complex than tribes but less so than states, characterized by a centralized authority and a hierarchy of leaders. They typically consist of a number of communities that are linked by kinship ties and allegiance to a chief, who holds power through hereditary means. This system often allows for the accumulation and redistribution of resources, enabling social stratification and the establishment of social classes.
Coeur d'Alene Reservation: The Coeur d'Alene Reservation is a federally recognized reservation located in northern Idaho and eastern Washington, established for the Coeur d'Alene Tribe. This area is rich in natural resources and has cultural significance for the tribe, serving as both a home and a center for their traditions and governance.
Columbia Plateau: The Columbia Plateau is a vast geographical region in the Pacific Northwest, primarily located in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, characterized by its flat, basaltic terrain and significant rivers. This plateau is essential to understanding the environment and lifestyle of the indigenous Plateau tribes who have thrived in this area for thousands of years, utilizing its resources for hunting, fishing, and gathering.
Columbia River: The Columbia River is a major river in the Pacific Northwest region of North America, flowing from the Rocky Mountains in British Columbia through Washington and Oregon before emptying into the Pacific Ocean. It has served as a critical resource for transportation, trade, and cultural exchange among various communities, shaping the history and economy of the region.
Colville Confederated Tribes: The Colville Confederated Tribes is a federally recognized tribe in Washington State, consisting of multiple tribes that came together to form a unified government. The confederation includes members from the Colville, Okanagan, Lakes, Methow, and other indigenous groups, who share a rich cultural heritage and history linked to the Plateau region. This alliance emphasizes cooperation among various tribes to address common challenges and promote their sovereignty and culture.
Colville Reservation: The Colville Reservation is a Native American reservation located in northeastern Washington State, established in 1872 for the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation. This area serves as a home for multiple tribes, including the Colville, Okanogan, and Wenatchee, and plays a crucial role in preserving their cultural heritage and providing for their economic needs.
Communal hunting drives: Communal hunting drives are organized efforts by groups to collectively hunt animals over a specific area, often using coordinated tactics to drive prey into a concentrated space for easier capture. This method reflects the social structure and cooperation within communities, particularly among Plateau tribes, where communal activities were vital for survival and resource management.
First salmon ceremony: The first salmon ceremony is a traditional cultural event among the Plateau tribes that celebrates the arrival of the first salmon of the season. This ceremony is not just a simple gathering; it holds deep spiritual significance, honoring the salmon as a vital resource and symbolizing the connection between the people, their ancestors, and nature. During this ceremony, rituals and offerings are made to ensure a successful fishing season and to show respect for the salmon's life cycle.
Fort Colville: Fort Colville was a significant trading post established by the Hudson's Bay Company in the 19th century, located near the confluence of the Columbia and Spokane Rivers in present-day Washington State. It served as a vital hub for trade and interaction between European settlers and local indigenous tribes, particularly the Plateau tribes, impacting the founding of major settlements in the region.
Fort Nez Perces: Fort Nez Perces was a significant fur trading post established by the Hudson's Bay Company in the early 19th century, located near the confluence of the Columbia and Snake Rivers in what is now Washington State. This fort became a crucial hub for trade between Native American tribes, particularly the Nez Perce, and European American settlers, influencing the dynamics of cultural exchange and settlement patterns in the region.
Huckleberries: Huckleberries are small, round berries that grow on shrubs in the wild, primarily found in the Pacific Northwest. They are highly valued for their sweet and tangy flavor and have been an important food source for various Native American tribes, including those in the Plateau region, where they were used in a variety of culinary and medicinal practices. The berries play a significant role in the cultural and economic aspects of life for these communities, often being harvested in late summer and celebrated in traditional gatherings.
Indian Removal Act: The Indian Removal Act was a U.S. law enacted in 1830 that authorized the federal government to negotiate treaties for the relocation of Native American tribes living east of the Mississippi River to lands in the west. This act resulted in the forced removal of thousands of Native Americans from their ancestral homelands, significantly impacting various tribes, including those in the Plateau region, where tribes faced loss of territory and disruption of their traditional ways of life.
Looking Glass: The term 'looking glass' refers to a reflective surface that allows individuals to see their own image, often symbolizing self-perception and identity. In the context of Plateau tribes, the looking glass metaphor highlights how these communities viewed themselves and their relationships with others, including the impact of external influences on their cultural identity and practices.
Nez Perce: The Nez Perce are a Native American tribe originally from the Plateau region of the Pacific Northwest, particularly in what is now northeastern Oregon, northern Idaho, and southeastern Washington. Known for their resistance against U.S. expansion during the 19th century, the Nez Perce played a significant role in American history through their interactions with explorers, settlers, and military forces.
Nez Perce Language: Nez Perce Language is a Native American language belonging to the Sahaptian branch of the Plateau linguistic family, primarily spoken by the Nez Perce people of the Pacific Northwest. This language is vital for cultural expression and identity among the Nez Perce, encapsulating their history, traditions, and worldview.
Okanogan Highlands: The Okanogan Highlands is a mountainous region located in north-central Washington, characterized by rolling hills, valleys, and numerous lakes. This area has been traditionally inhabited by several Plateau tribes, whose cultures and ways of life have been shaped by the diverse ecosystems and resources found in this unique landscape.
Potlatch Tradition: The potlatch tradition is a ceremonial practice among Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest, particularly among the tribes of the Plateau region, where a host invites guests to a feast and gives away or destroys valuable items to display wealth and social status. This custom serves as a way to reinforce social ties, redistribute resources, and mark important life events such as births, marriages, and deaths.
Reservation system: The reservation system refers to a policy initiated in the United States during the 19th century that aimed to isolate Native American tribes onto designated parcels of land. This system was established as a means for the federal government to control and manage Native populations while also facilitating westward expansion. In the context of Plateau tribes, this meant that their traditional territories were significantly reduced, disrupting their way of life and forcing them into a new reality that often included poverty and dependence on government assistance.
Root Feast: A root feast is a significant cultural event celebrated by Plateau tribes, marking the harvest of certain edible roots, particularly camas. This communal gathering involves cooking and sharing the harvested roots, reinforcing social bonds and cultural identity among the tribes. The feast is not only a celebration of food but also plays a vital role in spiritual and communal practices.
Root Gathering: Root gathering is the traditional practice of collecting various roots and tubers that are vital for nutrition and medicine, especially among Indigenous communities. This method showcases a deep understanding of local ecosystems, where tribes harvest specific plants at the right time to ensure sustainability. For Plateau tribes, root gathering is a key cultural activity that connects them to their land and ancestral knowledge, emphasizing the significance of plant resources in their daily lives.
Sahaptin: Sahaptin is a Native American language spoken by several tribes in the Plateau region of the Pacific Northwest, particularly by the Yakama and Nez Perce peoples. This language group is part of the larger Sahaptian family, which plays a crucial role in the cultural identity and heritage of the tribes that speak it. Sahaptin reflects the historical and social dynamics of Plateau tribes and highlights their connection to the land and resources.
Sahaptin Language: Sahaptin is a Native American language spoken by the Sahaptin peoples, primarily located in the Plateau region of the Pacific Northwest, including areas in Washington and Oregon. It serves as a vital means of communication and cultural expression for tribes such as the Yakama and Nez Perce, reflecting their traditions, history, and worldview.
Salmon fishing: Salmon fishing refers to the practice of catching salmon, a vital food source and cultural symbol for many Indigenous peoples, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. This activity is deeply intertwined with traditional customs and practices, emphasizing the importance of salmon in sustaining communities and maintaining ecological balance. The significance of salmon fishing goes beyond mere sustenance; it also plays a critical role in social structure, spirituality, and cultural identity.
Seasonal ceremonies: Seasonal ceremonies are traditional rituals and celebrations that align with specific times of the year, reflecting the cyclical nature of life and the changing seasons. In the context of Plateau tribes, these ceremonies hold cultural significance, providing a means to express gratitude for the natural world, celebrate community bonds, and mark important seasonal changes such as harvests or migrations.
Snake River Plain: The Snake River Plain is a large, flat region in southeastern Idaho that was formed by volcanic activity and the erosion of the surrounding mountains. This area is significant for its rich agricultural land and its unique geological features, including lava flows and basalt formations, which play a crucial role in the culture and sustenance of the Plateau tribes who inhabit this region.
Spokane Reservation: The Spokane Reservation is a designated area in eastern Washington State that was established for the Spokane Tribe of Indians. This reservation serves as both a cultural and political hub for the tribe, reflecting their heritage and providing a space for community life. It plays a significant role in the history and development of Plateau tribes, showcasing their resilience and adaptability in the face of external pressures.
Spokane Tribe: The Spokane Tribe is a Native American tribe located in the Pacific Northwest, primarily around the Spokane River in Washington State. Known for their deep connection to the land and rich cultural heritage, the Spokane people historically relied on fishing, hunting, and gathering for their subsistence, forming an integral part of the Plateau tribes of the region.
Subsistence farming: Subsistence farming is a type of agriculture where farmers grow food primarily for their own consumption rather than for sale or trade. This method focuses on producing enough crops and livestock to meet the needs of the family or community, with minimal surplus for external markets. It emphasizes self-sufficiency and often involves traditional farming techniques, which were particularly important for many indigenous cultures, including those living in the Plateau region.
Sweat lodge ceremonies: Sweat lodge ceremonies are traditional practices used by various Indigenous cultures, including the Plateau tribes, involving a purification ritual in a small, enclosed structure where participants sweat under heat and steam. These ceremonies serve as a spiritual cleansing process and are often held for healing, community bonding, or seeking guidance from spiritual forces.
Trade networks: Trade networks refer to the interconnected systems of exchange and commerce that enable the movement of goods, services, and resources between different groups or regions. These networks have played a critical role in shaping cultural interactions and economic development, especially among indigenous tribes and later European traders in North America. The establishment of these trade connections fostered not only economic ties but also cultural exchanges that influenced social structures and relationships among various groups.
Treaty of Walla Walla: The Treaty of Walla Walla was an agreement made in 1855 between the United States government and several Native American tribes in the Pacific Northwest, primarily the Yakama, Umatilla, and Nez Perce. This treaty established the boundaries of designated tribal lands and set forth terms regarding hunting, fishing, and farming rights, while also allowing for the construction of roads and railroads through tribal territories. It aimed to promote peace and regulate relationships between settlers and Indigenous peoples in the region.
Umatilla: Umatilla refers to both a Native American tribe and a river located in the Pacific Northwest, particularly associated with the Plateau tribes. The Umatilla people are known for their rich cultural heritage, traditional practices, and historical significance as part of the larger grouping of tribes that inhabited the Columbia Plateau region. The Umatilla River is also crucial for understanding the natural resources and geography that shaped the lives of these indigenous peoples.
Vision quests: Vision quests are spiritual journeys undertaken by individuals, particularly among Native American cultures, to seek personal guidance, clarity, and connection with the spirit world. These quests often involve fasting, solitude, and sometimes ritualistic practices in natural settings, reflecting a deep respect for the land and nature's power. They hold a significant place in the spiritual traditions of various tribes, including those from the Plateau region, where they are seen as a rite of passage or a means to gain insight into one's purpose and life path.
Yakama: The Yakama are a Native American tribe located in the Pacific Northwest, specifically in Washington State, recognized for their rich cultural heritage and historical significance. The Yakama Nation is made up of various Plateau tribes that traditionally inhabited the Columbia River Plateau, and they played a crucial role in the region's history, especially during conflicts with settlers and the U.S. government. Their traditions and customs reflect a deep connection to the land and resources of the region.