ABSTRACT

This book provides a thorough and engaging study of Plains Indian life. It covers both historical and contemporary aspects and contains wide and balanced treatment of the many different tribal groups, including Canadian and southern populations. Daniel J. Gelo draws on years of ethnographic research and emphasizes that Plains societies and cultures are continuing, living entities. The second edition has been updated to take account of recent developments and current terminology. The chapters feature a range of illustrations, maps, and text boxes, as well as summaries, key terms, and questions to support teaching and learning. It is an essential text for courses on Indians of the Great Plains and relevant for students of anthropology, archaeology, history, and Indigenous studies.

chapter 1|19 pages

The Great Plains

chapter 2|20 pages

Oral traditions

chapter 3|28 pages

Early history

chapter 4|26 pages

Bison, horse, and hoe

chapter 5|27 pages

Tribal organization

chapter 6|43 pages

Family and social life

chapter 7|44 pages

Material culture and art

chapter 8|16 pages

Music and dance

chapter 9|35 pages

Religious fundamentals

chapter 10|41 pages

Group rituals

chapter 11|32 pages

External relations

chapter 12|31 pages

Life through the twentieth century

chapter 13|34 pages

Contemporary life