Source:Sommer, Robin Langley. North American Indian Women

Description

Since paleo-Indian times, North American Indian women have held a central place in the life of their tribes, honored as the bringers of new life, sustainers of the people through many skillful tasks, teachers, healers, spiritual leaders and revered elders. Because Indian women were brought up to be physically strong and to divide the labor with the men of their tribe, early European observers believed they were mistreated beasts of burden. The word "squaw" -- a corruption of the Narragansett word for woman -- embodied that misperception. In fact, these women were highly respected members of their tribes. They had an autonomy unknown to European cultures in that most Indian women retained control of the goods they brought into marriage; were rarely forced to marry against their will; and could take on traditionally male responsibilities if they wished and serve as scouts, hunters, mediators, and even warriors. Indeed, a number of North American Indian tribes were matrilineal.

This book takes a look at the lives of North American Indian women: their cycle of life from girlhood to old age; their handiwork; their spiritual lives; and their traditional roles and responsibilities. Similarities and differences in women's lives from the East Coast to the West Coast and through the Arctic are noted. Such historic figures as Pocahontas and Sacagawea are depicted in a new light; and a look at Indian women today reveals that women are at the forefront of the movement to restore integrity and viability to their cultural inheritance. With over 140 illustrations, North American Indian Woman depicts the beauty and harmony of North American Indian life as seen through the eyes of the womenfolk.

Details

• ISBN: 1572151595 9781572151598
• OCLC Number: 39976209
• Notes: Includes index.
• Description: 128 p. : chiefly ill. (some col.) ; 32 cm.