American West Flashcards
What was the climate like on the plains?
The climate they faced on the plains was extreme in the winter with blizzards and in the summer it was hot and dry
What did the plains Indians live in and was it practical?
They lived in a tipi and it was practical. It was made out of strong buffalo skin which was supported by poles that ran through the tipi so it wouldn’t topple over. Plus, the wooden pegs held the skin together and flaps could be opened at the top of the tipi to let air in during the hot summer. It could be put down within 10 minutes.
What were the roles of men and women in the Sioux?
The men were responsible for hunting, looking after the horses and protecting the band. Whereas, the women were responsible for the tipi and getting food and water.
Was Indian life very organised?
Yes it was organised. They had nations which were split into tribes and then within a tribe you had bands. The bands had Chiefs, warrior societies and a council of men. The council was where all the important decisions were made and the warrior societies were responsible for hunting and protecting.
What were the buffalo used for?
They were used for many things.
Horns - arrow straighteners, fire carriers, ornaments, spoons etc.
Tongue - eaten as a delicacy or used as a hairbrush.
Fat - cooking, greasing hair.
Bones- used as dice, needles, jewellery etc.
Hooves - glue
Rawhide- bags, belts, masks, shields etc.
Tanned hide- bags, blankets, dolls etc.
What was counting coup?
The idea of counting coup was that it was considered more brave to touch an enemy than kill them. This reflects how the Sioux weren’t so war like.
What did the plains Indians believe in?
They believed that the great spirit created everything and that everything had a spirit. Plus, they believed in the circle of nature and that a lot of things were a cycle e.g. cycle of life.
What were visions?
This was a way of contacting the spirits. What you describe in your vision would become your adult name e.g. Sitting bull.
Why did the fur trappers go west?
They went out to catch animals as the fur trade was flourishing in the 1820s and 1840s.
Who found the south pass? (1823)
Jed smith
Who were the mountain men?
These were the fur trappers who worked for themselves.
What was the rendezvous?
This was the place where they would all meet up to trade and talk etc. It was a good way to spread the word about the Rockies.
What happened by 1840?
The mountain men had all moved on due most of the animals dying out and the trade had weakened. Plus, in 1837, a steamboat brought smallpox to fort Uhiom which killed many Indians so the fur trappers were no longer welcome.
What problems did the mountain men face?
They faced problems with the Indians, bears and extreme weather. Cannibalism could become common.
Who was the leader of the Mormons?
Joseph smith who believed that he was chosen by God to restore the true church of Christ.
