People of the Plains

Territory of the People of the Plains Interior Plains of the southern prairie provinces (Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba). Territory of the Bison

Society - Blackfoot Bands - Groups of 80 to 250 people that traveled and hunted together - All tribes had a council of men and women who made decisions. - When it was necessary, the council would appoint a Chief (someone who was brave, a good hunter, good decision-maker) to advise the tribe, not to order. Blackfoot camp

The Sun Dance - In mid-summer, the bands came together for the Sun Dance. - The major ceremony of the plains people – (nothing to do with the Sun.) - The Sun Dance was an emotional experience and an opportunity to arrange marriages and exchange property.

Hunting the Bison 2 ways of hunting Corralling them into a pound Running off a cliff called a buffalo jump. (above) Funneling the Herd – Lewis Parker (right) Over the Jump – Lewis Parker

How important were the bison? - Food! The bison meat made up the main part of the plains peoples’ diet. - What is Pemmican? - Just about everything was made from the bison. Tipi, Clothing, Bow/Shield, Storage bags, and MORE!

Blackfoot The Blackfoot had a nomadic lifestyle and followed the bison across the prairies. The bands had to be able to move quickly and efficiently. Originally used dogs and later used horses

Blackfoot - Tipi Very portable Made of bison hide - Property of the woman - The “vision paintings” on the outside were the property of the man