1. Aboriginal Groups Shared Characteristics

2. In all geographical areas of N
In all geographical areas of N. America (Pacific Coast, Interior Plains, Arctic Tundra) the original people developed a way of life based on the land & the resources they found there.

3. Common Characteristics
Despite their differences, Aboriginal societies shared many characteristics
Tech & culture of each group were much more like those of other aboriginal groups than they were like Europeans
In the following slides we will focus on food, clothing, housing, & religion

4. Shared Characteristics
Cooking
Clothing
Housing
Religion

5. Cooking Roasting over open fires
Heated containers or food by adding red hot stones
Preserved fish & meat by drying & smoking

6. Clothing Produced from cleaned animal skins
Protection from winters (fur blankets, moccasins)
Robes from cedar bark (Pacific areas)
Bones/sinews were used for stitching
Blankets of fur & moccasins were used in winter

7. Housing
Varied with location (affected by climate & building materials)
Plains – leather tipis
Pacific - Cedar plank houses
Far North - Igloos

8. Religion Varied with group Religious belief in a Great Spirit
People, animals, & nature are all connected
Ceremonies & rituals are performed to protect the balance of nature

9. Focus Questions
What significant role do animals play in North American aboriginal culture?
What evidence would you use to support the argument that aboriginals are closely connected with / products of their environment?

10. Sources
Francis, Daniel, and Sonia Riddoch. Our Canada: A Social & Political History. Canada: Pippin Publishing, 2001.

11. Aboriginal Profiles The Iroquoians The Northwest Coast The Plains
The Sub-arctic

12. Aboriginal Profiles
For the 4 aboriginal groups provided, compose a minimum ½ page summary incorporating the following:
1. Geographical living area
2. Tribal groups living within that area
3. Tribal social structure / govt organization
4. Food sources / agricultural production