The First Occupants: Culture and currents of thought

Question 1

The Natives had a strong relationship with nature.

What did they believe that proves this statement?

Answer 1

1. Respect for nature, dependence on it

2. Circle of life, all nature is linked

Question 2

What did the Natives believe about the soul and what was a consequence of this?

Answer 2

They believed in the immortality of the soul after death and they bury their dead with numerous objects that will accompany them in the afterlife

Question 3

What are some cultural expressions for the Natives’ relationship with nature?
Who are the main players?

Answer 3

1. Change of seasons ceremonies
2. Animal totems associated with clans
   The main players are hunters, gatherers, and women

Question 4

What was the Natives’ spirituality?

Answer 4

Animism

Question 5

What is animism?

Answer 5

Belief that every living and inanimate object has a soul

Question 6

What are some cultural expressions of spirituality?

Who are the main players?

Answer 6

1. Interpretation of dreams
2. Hunting and healing rituals
3. Art in the form of storytelling
4. Crafts, sculpture
   The main players are shaman and elders

Question 7

The Natives practiced communication and trade.

What did they do that proves this statement?

Answer 7

Reciprocal relationships based on gifts and counter gifts

Question 8

What are some cultural expressions of communication and trade?
Who are the main players?

Answer 8

1. Performance of ritual dances, drums
2. Oral storytelling
   The main players are chiefs and elders

Question 9

What are some changes in culture brought about by European contact?

Answer 9

1. New material goods (which changed how they made jewelry)
2. New foods and types of clothing (changed how they ate and dressed)
3. New weapons (changed the way they fought)