Glossary and Terms

Native American Glossary and Terms

Shaman—In native societies, a shaman (or medicine man) was believed to have magic powers to cure sickness
Teepee– A cone- or tent-shaped dwelling covered with animal hides. These were common on the Great Plains
Longhouses—Houses built to be a home for numerous families. They were often 200 feet long, with a central hallway and compartments along either side. A common room was at one end of the house.
Pueblo –These were flat, rectangular homes made from sun-dried adobe bricks. These were common in the Southwest
Grass houses—These homes were large, dome-shaped houses that involved building a wooden frame which was thatched with grass
Wattle and daub houses—These homes were more permanent that most native homes. A wood frame was built, and covered with a clay.
Cliff dwellings—These homes were constructed by the Anasazi in Arizona. They were built onto the sides of cliffs or under the rims of canyons.
Great Spirit—Many native religions believed in a creator, who was often referred to as the Great Spirit.
Black Hills—a region in South Dakota that is sacred to the Lakota Sioux
Ghost Dance—A ritual that spread through the Lakota people in the late 1800s. It was believed that people who performed the Ghost Dance became invincible
Totem pole—Very tall sculptures, usually carved from a single tree. These were carved by tribes in the Pacific Northwest, and usually included numerous faces. They could be over 100 feet tall.
Wampum—Small shells or beads that were used to show authority, to record treaties, or as money
Wigwam—These homes were round and tent-like, and usually covered with animal hides
Five Civilized Tribes—located in the southeastern United States, these were the Creek, Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, and Seminole
Indian Territory—When the United States began removing the Southeastern Indians, they sent them to Oklahoma, which was considered too desolate for white settlers.
Trail of Tears—An 800-mile long forced march of the Southeastern Indians to Oklahoma