1. First Nations Introduction

2. Migration Theories
By boat = people in Asia travelled by boat across the Pacific Ocean

3. Remember, this was over 30 000 years ago!

4. 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

8. 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)

9. 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

10. 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

11. 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)

12. The People of the Northwest Coast

13. The People of the Northwest Coast
Territory:
Northwest Pacific Coast of North America (from Alaska to Oregon)

14. 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

15. THINK:
Totem Poles

18. Haida Gwaii
Bill Reid

19. 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)

20. Transportation – Canoe

21. Society - Clans
Raven
Clarence Mills
Eagle
Corey Bullpitt

22. Longhouses