Clothing In Native American Culture Essay

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Clothing is an important factor in any culture. It gives each culture their own unique way of not only identifying but expressing themselves. Most American Indian men did not wear shirts. Some, like the Plains Indian warriors, did wear special buckskin war shirts. These were decorated with hair, ermine tails, and great quillwork and beadwork. In some tribes, Indian clothing for men was a short skirt like item or fur shorts. Native American clothing for women was usually skirts and leggings. Things such as the length, design, and material of the skirts varied for each tribe. In some tribes, Native American women's shirts were optional. The shirt would be treated more like a coat. In other tribes, Native American women always wore something that resembled a

These stories are told from wise elders to teach morals and to provide light to dark situations. These stories are known as trickster tales in Native American culture. The characters are typically animals. Each animal is associated with certain characteristics. They are supposed to reflect these characteristics in the stories told. The owls in the stories are supposed to give off the impression of wisdom. The owl is considered to be the disguise of those who had passed on. These people were said to be the wise leaders’ spirits. Although the bird is known for its wisdom, it also has bad qualities as well. The owl is considered a bad omen, meaning that it carries a bad rep as well. The owl usually foresees the future, typically bad things. Another critical character in these tales are beavers. They are known to take charge and to overcome even the most impossible situations. The beaver is adamant about his work and always finishes the task at hand. The beaver can be very helpful, resourceful and generous. On the down side he can be over-demanding, cowardly and very