Spokane Tribe

Definition

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.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Spokane Tribe has a population of around 2,000 enrolled members today and operates its own government and various economic enterprises.
2. Historically, the Spokane Tribe utilized the abundant resources of the Spokane River, engaging in fishing and gathering plants like camas for food.
3. The tribe's traditional language is Salish, which is part of a larger language family spoken by various tribes in the Pacific Northwest.
4. The Spokane Tribe plays an active role in environmental stewardship, focusing on the restoration of natural habitats affected by urban development and industrial activities.
5. The tribe participates in cultural exchanges and education programs to share their heritage and history with younger generations and the broader community.

Review Questions

• How does the Spokane Tribe's lifestyle reflect the characteristics of Plateau tribes?
  • The Spokane Tribe's lifestyle embodies key characteristics of Plateau tribes through their reliance on fishing, hunting, and gathering. Like other Plateau tribes, they adapted to their environment by utilizing local resources such as the Spokane River for salmon fishing and foraging for native plants. Their seasonal movements were also typical of Plateau peoples who followed food sources throughout the year. This deep connection to the land showcases the similarities shared among Plateau tribes.
• Discuss the significance of treaties made between the Spokane Tribe and the United States government in shaping their rights and land use.
  • Treaties, such as the Treaty of Spokane in 1855, played a crucial role in defining the relationship between the Spokane Tribe and the United States government. These agreements established boundaries for tribal lands and laid out conditions for resource use. While they were intended to protect tribal rights, many treaties were often violated or poorly enforced. The legacy of these treaties continues to impact current discussions on sovereignty, land rights, and tribal governance for the Spokane Tribe.
• Evaluate how modern initiatives by the Spokane Tribe reflect their commitment to cultural preservation amid contemporary challenges.
  • Modern initiatives undertaken by the Spokane Tribe demonstrate a strong commitment to cultural preservation in light of contemporary challenges such as urbanization and loss of traditional lands. By focusing on cultural revitalization projects that promote language education, traditional arts, and environmental stewardship, the tribe is actively working to strengthen its cultural identity. These efforts not only help reconnect younger generations with their heritage but also raise awareness about indigenous issues within broader society, ensuring that their traditions are maintained for future generations.

Related terms

Plateau Tribes: A group of Native American tribes that inhabit the Plateau region, including parts of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, known for their semi-nomadic lifestyle and reliance on fishing and seasonal hunting.

Cultural Revitalization: Efforts made by indigenous communities to revive and maintain their traditional practices, languages, and cultural expressions that may have been lost or diminished due to colonization.

Treaty of Spokane: An 1855 agreement between the Spokane Tribe and the United States government that established the boundaries of their reservation and outlined terms for land use and governance.