Art of NORTH AMERICA

The first inhabitants of the American continents were nomadic hunters and gatherers. These nomads probably arrived in North America around 40,000 years ago, following a land bridge that formed between North America and Asia.

It is believed that another group of humans migrated from Asia into North America around 12,000 years ago. Some scientists also think that some people might have used boats to follow ocean currents to the tip of South America, while others arrived following ice from Western Europe.

Agricultural Revolution For thousands of years, the inhabitants who lived on the American continents lived off of the land. Then in 5000 B.C. near present day Mexico many groups of people began to discover farming. They realized that they could plant crops such as corn, pumpkins, potatoes, and squash, and by doing so, could better provide for the needs of their people. This new technology spread from Mexico outward to other parts of the Southwest, so that by 3000 B.C. many groups of people in the region were actively practising farming.

Villages Develop The practice of farming the land led to the development of villages. The people no longer had to travel in search of wild game and plant life. Instead, they could settle down in one place, and begin to build more permanent structures. These permanent villages allowed for more complex societies and cultures to evolve in the region. New religions and governments began to form, and individuals began to become more specialized in their jobs.

Villages Develop This specialization of work tasks allowed technology to really take off, so that great advancements were made. The people became more skilled in tool making, creating special implements for farming, fishing, building and so forth. .

Cultural Differentiation The various peoples inhabiting North America gradually developed many different and unique cultures. Each culture was heavily influenced by the land, and natural resources around the people. These cultures included their traditions, religious practices, and their everyday lives and customs.

ART from NATIVE AMERICANS The Artic Peoples

ART from NATIVE AMERICANS The Northwest Peoples

ART from NATIVE AMERICANS The California Region Peoples

ART from NATIVE AMERICANS The Great Basin Peoples

ART from NATIVE AMERICANS The Southwest Peoples

ART from NATIVE AMERICANS The Great Plains Peoples

ART from NATIVE AMERICANS The Eastern Woodlands Peoples

ART from NATIVE AMERICANS