The People of the Northwest Coast and the Western Cordillera Region

VANCOUVER!

Western Cordillera Region Mountains, many rivers to Pacific Ocean Maritime climate, moist and mild Warmer winter and cooler summer Wet/ rain Lush/ green, evergreens (fir/ hemlock/ red cedar), tundra at high elevation

Example of Groups in this region: Haida, Nishga, Halisha, Salish Inherited rank and privilege (land, resources, wealth) – social classes Have nobels, commoners, slaves Travel to collect food in “seasonal round” – travel to collect food with the seasons Lots of food from plants & ocean Shell fish, salmon, seafood, birds, even whales Dry fish for winter Travel in cedar canoes Made of 1 log, very sea-worthy (could be 20m long, carry 50 people)

Live in cedar houses (long house/ lodge), carve clan images on house Wear clothes of deer skin, hats for the rain culture: have potlatch to show status at important event (like birth) host gives gifts to all (redistribute the wealth) have feasts and dancing Create totem poles – carved to tell story of clan, based on animals in area Ritual dances of legends; use elaborate costumes/ cedar masks of mythical animals

Summary How did the physical environment of the Western Cordillera Region influence the culture of the people of the Northwest Coast?