First Nations Introduction
Migration Theories By boat = people in Asia travelled by boat across the Pacific Ocean
Remember, this was over 30 000 years ago!
Ice Bridge = people in Northeast Asia crossed the Bering Straight when it was frozen Land Bridge = people in Northeast Asia crossed the Bering Straight when the ocean was low, they were able to travel by land
Terms used for First Nations people natives = people born in a specific place “Natives” (capitalized) = group of people who lived in Canada before the Europeans came Aboriginal/Indigenous = first group of people to live in an area First Nations (most commonly used)
Indians The name Europeans gave to Natives when they first arrived They thought they landed in India Still used in some places but many First Nations think the name is insulting Indians
Aboriginal peoples Found on all 7 continents Common characteristics: -Subsistence-based production (food, clothing and survival comes from the Earth) -Mostly non-urbanized There are many First Nations within Canada. Each First Nation has its own customs, traditions and way of life
Common cultural features: Potlatch: a gathering for people to celebrate a specific event -Involved lots of gifts, feasts and dancing -Purpose: to redistribute wealth Music: to honour the Earth, Creator and ancestors. Mostly used drums made from animal hides Art: method of telling stories, history and wisdom (often reflect the natural and supernatural worlds)
The People of the Northwest Coast
The People of the Northwest Coast Territory: Northwest Pacific Coast of North America (from Alaska to Oregon)
The northwest coast of North America has a mild climate. This climate, along with the many natural resources (forests, Pacific Ocean…) resulted in a complex and rich culture Because of their natural surroundings (easier access to food and living), many people focused on arts, crafts and ceremonies
THINK: Totem Poles
Haida Gwaii Bill Reid
Northwest Coast Peoples Seasonal Lifestyle Winter In large permanent villages Making/repairing tools Live on stored food Barry Tate Spring/Summer/Fall Live at various food collection sites – shellfish, salmon… Trading with other groups Raiding (Stealing)
Transportation – Canoe
Society - Clans Raven Clarence Mills Eagle Corey Bullpitt
Longhouses