Native American Art and Culture

Unit 1 – Indigenous Languages: Oral Traditions

Unit 2 – Native American Spiritual Beliefs & Practices

Unit 3 – Native American Art: Past and Present

Unit 4 – Native American Music & Dance Traditions

Unit 5 – Indigenous Food Systems & Cuisine

Unit 6 – Native American Dress and Adornment

Unit 7 – Tribal Governance and Politics

Unit 8 – Native American Gender and Family Dynamics

Unit 9 – Indigenous Land Management Practices

Unit 10 – Native American Activism and Resistance

Unit 11 – Native American Identity & Cultural Legacy

## What do you learn in Native American Cultural Practice, Art, and Identity

You'll explore the rich tapestry of Native American cultures, focusing on their artistic expressions, traditional practices, and identity formation. The course covers topics like tribal art forms, ceremonial rituals, oral traditions, and contemporary Native American issues. You'll also examine how colonization and modern society have impacted Indigenous identities and cultural preservation efforts.

## Is Native American Cultural Practice, Art, and Identity hard?

It's not typically considered a super tough class, but it does require some serious engagement. You'll need to do a fair bit of reading and be ready to discuss complex cultural concepts. The hardest part for most students is shifting their perspective to understand Native American worldviews. If you're genuinely interested in the subject, you'll probably find it more fascinating than difficult.

## Tips for taking Native American Cultural Practice, Art, and Identity in college

1. Use [Fiveable Study Guides](https://fiveable.me/cram-mode) to help you cram 🌶️
2. Engage with primary sources like Native American art, literature, and oral histories
3. Attend cultural events or exhibitions related to course topics
4. Practice critical thinking about cultural appropriation vs. appreciation
5. Watch documentaries like "Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked the World" or "Smoke Signals"
6. Read Sherman Alexie's "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" for a modern perspective
7. Don't shy away from discussing sensitive topics like historical trauma or sovereignty issues

## Common pre-requisites for Native American Cultural Practice, Art, and Identity

1. Introduction to Native American Studies: This course provides an overview of Indigenous peoples in North America, their histories, and contemporary issues. It's a great foundation for more specialized classes.

2. American History to 1877: This class covers early American history, including interactions between Native Americans and European colonizers. It gives important context for understanding Native American experiences.

## Classes similar to Native American Cultural Practice, Art, and Identity

1. Indigenous Peoples of North America: Focuses on the diverse cultures, histories, and contemporary issues of Native American tribes across the continent. You'll learn about different tribal nations and their unique traditions.

2. Native American Literature: Explores literary works by Indigenous authors, including novels, poetry, and oral traditions. It's a great way to dive deeper into Native American perspectives through storytelling.

3. Anthropology of Native North America: Examines Native American cultures from an anthropological perspective. You'll learn about kinship systems, religious beliefs, and social structures.

4. Native American Environmental Issues: Covers the relationship between Indigenous peoples and the environment, including land rights, resource management, and traditional ecological knowledge.

## Majors related to Native American Cultural Practice, Art, and Identity

1. Native American Studies: Focuses on the histories, cultures, and contemporary issues of Indigenous peoples in North America. Students gain a deep understanding of Native American perspectives and experiences.

2. Anthropology: Explores human cultures and societies, including those of Indigenous peoples. Anthropology majors learn about cultural diversity, social structures, and human behavior.

3. Art History: Examines the development of art across different cultures and time periods. Students studying art history often encounter Native American art forms and their cultural significance.

4. Ethnic Studies: Investigates the experiences of various ethnic and racial groups. It often includes courses on Native American history, culture, and contemporary issues.

## What can you do with a degree in Native American Cultural Practice, Art, and Identity?

1. Cultural Resource Manager: Works to protect and preserve Native American cultural sites and artifacts. They often collaborate with tribal communities and government agencies to ensure respectful treatment of Indigenous heritage.

2. Museum Curator: Organizes and manages collections of Native American art and artifacts. They research, develop exhibitions, and educate the public about Indigenous cultures.

3. Tribal Liaison: Acts as a bridge between Native American communities and government agencies or corporations. They facilitate communication and ensure that Indigenous perspectives are considered in decision-making processes.

4. Native American Art Dealer: Specializes in buying and selling authentic Native American art. They work with artists, collectors, and galleries to promote and preserve Indigenous art forms.

## Native American Cultural Practice, Art, and Identity FAQs

1. How does this course address contemporary Native American issues? The class explores current challenges facing Indigenous communities, including sovereignty, cultural preservation, and social justice. You'll learn about modern Native American activism and resilience.

2. Will we learn about specific tribal cultures or a general overview? While the course provides a broad understanding of Native American cultures, it also delves into specific tribal traditions and practices. You'll likely study several different Indigenous nations in depth.

3. Is there a fieldwork component to this class? Some professors include field trips to local museums, cultural centers, or Native American events. It depends on the specific course structure and your location.

Native American Studies

1.1 Language families and linguistic diversity

1.3 Language revitalization efforts

1.2 Oral storytelling and creation stories

1.4 Traditional knowledge transmission

2.1 Animism and the interconnectedness of all things

2.2 Ceremonies and rituals

2.3 Sacred sites and landscapes

2.4 Traditional healing practices

3.1 Basketry and weaving

3.2 Pottery and ceramics

3.4 Contemporary Native American visual arts

3.5 Indigenous film and media

3.3 Beadwork and quillwork

4.2 Powwow culture and etiquette

4.3 Ceremonial and social dances

4.4 Contemporary Native American music

4.1 Traditional musical instruments

5.1 Traditional hunting and gathering practices

5.2 Agricultural systems and crop cultivation

5.3 Food preservation techniques

5.4 Contemporary Native American cuisine

6.1 Traditional clothing materials and techniques

6.2 Regalia and ceremonial attire

6.4 Cultural significance of clothing and adornment

6.3 Jewelry and accessories

7.1 Traditional leadership roles and decision-making processes

7.3 Federal recognition and the Bureau of Indian Affairs

7.4 Contemporary tribal governments and economic development

7.2 Treaties and tribal sovereignty

8.1 Traditional gender roles and responsibilities

8.2 Matrilineal and patrilineal kinship systems

8.3 Child-rearing practices and education

8.4 Two-Spirit identity and LGBTQ+ issues

9.1 Traditional ecological knowledge

9.2 Sustainable resource management practices

9.3 Sacred sites protection and land rights

9.4 Climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies

10.1 Historical resistance to colonization and assimilation

10.2 American Indian Movement and Red Power

10.3 Indigenous environmental activism

10.4 Contemporary social justice movements

11.1 Urban Native American experiences

11.2 Cultural revitalization and language preservation efforts

11.3 Native American representation in media and popular culture

11.4 Intersectionality and diversity within Native American communities

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.

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