cultures of alaska

Cultures of AlaskaCultures of Alaska

Alaska’s Native people are divided into Alaska’s Native people are divided into eleven distinct cultures, speaking eleven distinct cultures, speaking

eleven different languages and twenty-eleven different languages and twenty-two different dialects. In order to tell two different dialects. In order to tell the stories of this diverse population, the stories of this diverse population,

this information (provided primarily by this information (provided primarily by ANHC) is organized based on five ANHC) is organized based on five

culture groupings, which draw upon culture groupings, which draw upon cultural similarities or geographic cultural similarities or geographic

proximity.proximity.

Aleut & Alutiiq PeopleAleut & Alutiiq People

• Where are they located?Where are they located?– Maritime peoples located in South & Southwest Maritime peoples located in South & Southwest

Alaska Alaska – Territory stretches from Prince William Sound to the Territory stretches from Prince William Sound to the

end of the Aleutian Islands. As well, there are over end of the Aleutian Islands. As well, there are over 300 Aleuts in Nikolskoye on Bering Island, Russia.300 Aleuts in Nikolskoye on Bering Island, Russia.

– Linguists estimate that the Aleut language separated Linguists estimate that the Aleut language separated from the earlier Eskimo languages 4,000 years ago.from the earlier Eskimo languages 4,000 years ago.

– Anthropologists have classified the Alutiiq people Anthropologists have classified the Alutiiq people into three basic groupsinto three basic groups• Chugachmiut – Chugach/Prince Williams Sound AreaChugachmiut – Chugach/Prince Williams Sound Area• Unegkurmiut – Lower Kenai Peninsula AreaUnegkurmiut – Lower Kenai Peninsula Area• Koniagmiut – Kodiak Island & Alaska Peninsula AreaKoniagmiut – Kodiak Island & Alaska Peninsula Area

– The suffix ‘-miut’ means ‘the people of’ a certain place. The The suffix ‘-miut’ means ‘the people of’ a certain place. The people of Kodiak Island were called Qikertarmiut meaning people of Kodiak Island were called Qikertarmiut meaning “people of the large island.”“people of the large island.”


• Who are they?Who are they?– Water played an important role in their lives (creeks, Water played an important role in their lives (creeks,

rivers, the shoreline or the vast waters of the North rivers, the shoreline or the vast waters of the North Pacific & Bering Sea)Pacific & Bering Sea)

– Knowledge of the resources & skills in harvesting Knowledge of the resources & skills in harvesting them define the cycle of life in a villagethem define the cycle of life in a village

– The intensity of the weather that travels through this The intensity of the weather that travels through this region governs the activities more than any other region governs the activities more than any other factor.factor.

– Heavily influenced by the Russians beginning in the Heavily influenced by the Russians beginning in the 1818thth Century (1740’s) (Russian Orthodox Church, Century (1740’s) (Russian Orthodox Church, Russian Food, Russian Words)Russian Food, Russian Words)

– Two languages – Unangax and Sugcestun are the Two languages – Unangax and Sugcestun are the indigenous languagesindigenous languages


• Housing & SettlementsHousing & Settlements– Lived primarily in coastal villages and a few inland Lived primarily in coastal villages and a few inland

villages located on rivers and lakes. villages located on rivers and lakes. – Each settlement had defined territories for Each settlement had defined territories for

harvesting resources (seals, sea lions, halibut, cod, harvesting resources (seals, sea lions, halibut, cod, birds, plants & driftwood)birds, plants & driftwood)

– Traditional Houses were semi-subterranean. Alutiiq Traditional Houses were semi-subterranean. Alutiiq house was called house was called ciqlluagciqlluag and provided efficient and provided efficient protection from harsh weather conditions. The protection from harsh weather conditions. The ulax ulax or barabaraor barabara, the basic Unangax Aleut house is an , the basic Unangax Aleut house is an oblong pit dwelling with driftwood or whale bone oblong pit dwelling with driftwood or whale bone frames and rafters covered by grass and sod. These frames and rafters covered by grass and sod. These dwellings were difficult to distinguish from the dwellings were difficult to distinguish from the surrounding terrain and were entered by means of a surrounding terrain and were entered by means of a pole ladder through the ceiling.pole ladder through the ceiling.


This photo demonstrates the construction of the home. Entrances were not as seen here, but rather as seen at right – through a hole in the ceiling.

Aleut & Alutiiq PeopleAleut & Alutiiq People• Traditional Tools & TechnologyTraditional Tools & Technology

– Aleuts & Alutiiq People were known for their skill in building Aleuts & Alutiiq People were known for their skill in building kayaks known as iqyax and qayaq (baidarka) respectively and kayaks known as iqyax and qayaq (baidarka) respectively and were distinguished by the split bow, which increased the were distinguished by the split bow, which increased the seaworthiness and speed of the craft. Baidarkas were constructed seaworthiness and speed of the craft. Baidarkas were constructed from oiled walrus or sealskins stretched over wood frames. It from oiled walrus or sealskins stretched over wood frames. It typically had two cockpits, the rear one for a paddler and the front typically had two cockpits, the rear one for a paddler and the front one for a harpooner. They also used the igilax/angyaq (baidar), a one for a harpooner. They also used the igilax/angyaq (baidar), a large open skin boat for travel and trade. large open skin boat for travel and trade.

– Hunters wore distinctive bentwood visors with sea lion whiskers. Hunters wore distinctive bentwood visors with sea lion whiskers. Visors protected them from glare and were a visual symbol of the Visors protected them from glare and were a visual symbol of the status of the hunter. The number of whiskers attached showed status of the hunter. The number of whiskers attached showed the hunting successes.the hunting successes.

– Portions of sea mammals were used for clothing and utensils. The Portions of sea mammals were used for clothing and utensils. The skins of seals, sea lions, sea otters, bear, birds squirrels & skins of seals, sea lions, sea otters, bear, birds squirrels & marmots were used for clothing.marmots were used for clothing.

– Hats & baskets were woven from spruce roots & grass. Baskets Hats & baskets were woven from spruce roots & grass. Baskets were woven with geometric patterns and are considered to be the were woven with geometric patterns and are considered to be the finest in the world with up to 2500 stitches per square inch.finest in the world with up to 2500 stitches per square inch.


• Culture & Social OrganizationCulture & Social Organization– Still very important in these cultures are Still very important in these cultures are

kinship and family relationships.kinship and family relationships.•These connections persist throughout the region These connections persist throughout the region

and are important in the management of the and are important in the management of the village and the decision-making of everyday life.village and the decision-making of everyday life.

•Village members would punish those who violated Village members would punish those who violated the rules of conduct of the village. The most the rules of conduct of the village. The most serious form of punishment was banishment.serious form of punishment was banishment.


• ClothingClothing– Due to the wet maritime climate, it was important to have waterproof Due to the wet maritime climate, it was important to have waterproof

clothing. Garments were made of skin and gut sewn with incredible clothing. Garments were made of skin and gut sewn with incredible precision for making them very effective against wet weather.precision for making them very effective against wet weather.

– Clothing was decorated with colorful natural dyes, feathers and puffin Clothing was decorated with colorful natural dyes, feathers and puffin beaks and in some cases elaborately carved ivory, bone or wooden beaks and in some cases elaborately carved ivory, bone or wooden figurines.figurines.

• Subsistence PatternsSubsistence Patterns– Most of their time was spent obtaining their food and livelihood from Most of their time was spent obtaining their food and livelihood from

the sea using iqyax/qayaq or bairdarka. Larger groups used the the sea using iqyax/qayaq or bairdarka. Larger groups used the angyaq or baidar.angyaq or baidar.

– Villages were usually located at the mouths of streams to take Villages were usually located at the mouths of streams to take advantage of fresh water & abundant salmon runs as they are today. advantage of fresh water & abundant salmon runs as they are today. Besides nets, traps and weirs for fishing, they used wooden hooks and Besides nets, traps and weirs for fishing, they used wooden hooks and kelp or sinew lines. Today, salmon, halibut, octopus, shellfish, seal, kelp or sinew lines. Today, salmon, halibut, octopus, shellfish, seal, sea lion, caribou (AK Peninsula) and deer remain important sea lion, caribou (AK Peninsula) and deer remain important components of the Aleut & Alutiiq diet.components of the Aleut & Alutiiq diet.

– The Aleut were skillful hunters of sea mammals and were exploited by The Aleut were skillful hunters of sea mammals and were exploited by fur traders for forced labor. Harsh treatment by the Russians as well fur traders for forced labor. Harsh treatment by the Russians as well as smallpox and influenza epidemics took their toll on the native as smallpox and influenza epidemics took their toll on the native population.population.


• Traditions & CeremoniesTraditions & Ceremonies– Winter was a time for traditions involving elaborate celebrations Winter was a time for traditions involving elaborate celebrations

and ceremonies.and ceremonies.– Singing, dancing and feasting took place as part of these Singing, dancing and feasting took place as part of these

ritualistic traditions.ritualistic traditions.– Festivals began in late fall after all the necessary food for the Festivals began in late fall after all the necessary food for the

winter had been gathered and stored. winter had been gathered and stored. – The festivals were held in large communal houses, called the The festivals were held in large communal houses, called the

qasgiq and generally fell into two typesqasgiq and generally fell into two types• Spiritual – which were necessary to guarantee continued good Spiritual – which were necessary to guarantee continued good

hunting and fishinghunting and fishing• Social – marriages and other special eventsSocial – marriages and other special events

• RegaliaRegalia– Performers often wore elaborate clothing some specific to Performers often wore elaborate clothing some specific to

certain ceremonies. Carved wooden masks, tattoos, body certain ceremonies. Carved wooden masks, tattoos, body paints and other decorative items.paints and other decorative items.

AthabascansAthabascans

• Who are they and where are they located?Who are they and where are they located?– People who traditionally lived in Interior Alaska, an expansive People who traditionally lived in Interior Alaska, an expansive

region that begins south of the Brooks Mountain Range and region that begins south of the Brooks Mountain Range and continues down to the Kenai Peninsula.continues down to the Kenai Peninsula.

– There are eleven linguistic groups of Athabascans in AlaskaThere are eleven linguistic groups of Athabascans in Alaska– Traditionally lived along five major river ways: The Yukon, The Traditionally lived along five major river ways: The Yukon, The

Tanana, The Susitna, The Kuskokwim and The Copper river Tanana, The Susitna, The Kuskokwim and The Copper river drainages.drainages.

– They migrated seasonally, traveling in small groups to fish, hunt They migrated seasonally, traveling in small groups to fish, hunt and trap.and trap.

– They call themselves ‘Dena’ or ‘the people’They call themselves ‘Dena’ or ‘the people’– In traditional & contemporary practices they are taught respect In traditional & contemporary practices they are taught respect

for all living things and the most important part of their for all living things and the most important part of their subsistence lifestyle is sharing.subsistence lifestyle is sharing.

– All hunters are part of a kin-based network in which they are All hunters are part of a kin-based network in which they are expected to follow traditional customs for sharing in the expected to follow traditional customs for sharing in the community.community.


• House Types & SettlementsHouse Types & Settlements– They were masters at designing a variety of shelters They were masters at designing a variety of shelters

– simple and functional – that kept them both warm – simple and functional – that kept them both warm and mobile as they set out to hunt and trade.and mobile as they set out to hunt and trade.

– Traditionally lived in small groups of 20 to 40 people Traditionally lived in small groups of 20 to 40 people that moved systematically through the resource that moved systematically through the resource territories.territories.

– Annual summer fish camps for the entire family and Annual summer fish camps for the entire family and winter villages served as base camps. They followed winter villages served as base camps. They followed the fish & game which provided food, clothing and the fish & game which provided food, clothing and shelter. Depending on the season and regional shelter. Depending on the season and regional resources several traditional house types were used.resources several traditional house types were used.


• Tools, Technology & Clothing Tools, Technology & Clothing – Reflected the resources of the regions. Reflected the resources of the regions.

• Tools were made of stone, antlers, wood & boneTools were made of stone, antlers, wood & bone• Tools were used to build houses, boats, snowshoes, clothing Tools were used to build houses, boats, snowshoes, clothing

and cooking utensils.and cooking utensils.• Clothing, including moccasins and boots, were made of Clothing, including moccasins and boots, were made of

caribou and moose hide.caribou and moose hide.– Styles of moccasins vary depending on conditions. Both men Styles of moccasins vary depending on conditions. Both men

and women are adept at sewing, although women traditionally and women are adept at sewing, although women traditionally did most of the skin sewing.did most of the skin sewing.

• Regalia varies region to region and may include men’s Regalia varies region to region and may include men’s beaded jackets, dentalium shell necklaces (worn by chiefs), beaded jackets, dentalium shell necklaces (worn by chiefs), men and women beaded tunics and women’s beaded men and women beaded tunics and women’s beaded dancing boots.dancing boots.

• Canoes were made of birch bark, moose hide and Canoes were made of birch bark, moose hide and cottonwood. All Athabascans used sleds – with and without cottonwood. All Athabascans used sleds – with and without dogs to pull them – snowshoes and dogs as pack animalsdogs to pull them – snowshoes and dogs as pack animals


• Culture & Social OrganizationCulture & Social Organization– They used a matrilineal system in which children They used a matrilineal system in which children

belong to the mother’s clan, rather than to the belong to the mother’s clan, rather than to the father’s clan (exception: Holikachuk and the Deg father’s clan (exception: Holikachuk and the Deg Hit’an Clans).Hit’an Clans).

– Clan elders made decisions concerning marriage, Clan elders made decisions concerning marriage, leadership and trading customs.leadership and trading customs.• The core of the traditional culture was a woman and her The core of the traditional culture was a woman and her

brother and their two families. A brother and his sister’s brother and their two families. A brother and his sister’s husband often became hunting partners for life. husband often became hunting partners for life.

• Athabascan husbands were expected to live with the wife’s Athabascan husbands were expected to live with the wife’s family during the first year, when the husband would work family during the first year, when the husband would work for the family and go hunting with his brothers-in-law.for the family and go hunting with his brothers-in-law.

• A central feature to their lifestyle was a system whereby the A central feature to their lifestyle was a system whereby the mother’s brother takes social responsibility for training and mother’s brother takes social responsibility for training and socializing his sister’s children so that the children grow up socializing his sister’s children so that the children grow up knowing their clan history & customs.knowing their clan history & customs.


• TraditionsTraditions– Activities were marked by the passing moons, Activities were marked by the passing moons,

each named according to the changing each named according to the changing conditions:conditions:•““when the first king salmon comes”when the first king salmon comes”•““when the moose lose their antlers”when the moose lose their antlers”•““little crust on snow”little crust on snow”

– The winter was “the time we gathered The winter was “the time we gathered together” when scattered families returned to together” when scattered families returned to their winter villages, hunted smaller animals their winter villages, hunted smaller animals close by and gathered for potlatches and close by and gathered for potlatches and other community celebrationsother community celebrations

Eyak, Tlingit, Haida and Eyak, Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian PeopleTsimshian People

• Who are they and where are they from?Who are they and where are they from?– This group of people share a common & similar This group of people share a common & similar

Northwest Coast Culture with important differences Northwest Coast Culture with important differences in language & clan system.in language & clan system.

– They have a complex social system consisting of They have a complex social system consisting of moieties, phratries & clans.moieties, phratries & clans.• Eyak, Tlingit & Haida divide themselves into moietiesEyak, Tlingit & Haida divide themselves into moieties• Tsimshian divide into phratries.Tsimshian divide into phratries.

– The region from the Copper River Delta to the The region from the Copper River Delta to the Southeast Panhandle is a temperate rainforest with Southeast Panhandle is a temperate rainforest with precipitation ranging from 112 – 200 inches per year. precipitation ranging from 112 – 200 inches per year.

– The people depend upon the ocean & rivers for their The people depend upon the ocean & rivers for their food & travelfood & travel

Eyak, Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian Eyak, Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian PeoplePeople• Language & LocationLanguage & Location

– Eyak is a single language with only one living speaker Eyak is a single language with only one living speaker • Eyak occupied the lands in the southeastern corner of Southcentral Alaska. Eyak occupied the lands in the southeastern corner of Southcentral Alaska.

Their territory runs along the Gulf of Alaska from the Copper River Delta to Their territory runs along the Gulf of Alaska from the Copper River Delta to Icy Bay.Icy Bay.

– The Tlingit language has four main dialects: Northern, Southern, The Tlingit language has four main dialects: Northern, Southern, Inland & Gulf Coast with variations in accent from each village.Inland & Gulf Coast with variations in accent from each village.

• Tlingit territory includes the Southeast panhandle between Icy Bay in the Tlingit territory includes the Southeast panhandle between Icy Bay in the north to the Dixon Entrance in the South.north to the Dixon Entrance in the South.

– The Haida people speak an isolate language, Haida, with three The Haida people speak an isolate language, Haida, with three dialects: Skidegate & Masset in British Columbia and the Kaigani dialects: Skidegate & Masset in British Columbia and the Kaigani dialect in Alaska.dialect in Alaska.

• The original home of the Haida people is the Queen Charlotte Islands in The original home of the Haida people is the Queen Charlotte Islands in British Columbia. Prior to contact a group migrated north to the Prince of British Columbia. Prior to contact a group migrated north to the Prince of Wales Island area.Wales Island area.

– The Tsimshian people speak another isolate language, Sm’algyax, The Tsimshian people speak another isolate language, Sm’algyax, which has four main dialects: Coast Tsimshian, Southern Tsimshian, which has four main dialects: Coast Tsimshian, Southern Tsimshian, Nisga’a and Gitksan.Nisga’a and Gitksan.

• The homeland of the Tsimshian is between the Nass & Skeena Rivers in The homeland of the Tsimshian is between the Nass & Skeena Rivers in British Columbia though at contact in Southeast Alaska’s Portland Canal British Columbia though at contact in Southeast Alaska’s Portland Canal area there were villages at Hyder & Halibut Bay. Presently, the Tsimshian area there were villages at Hyder & Halibut Bay. Presently, the Tsimshian live mainly on Annette Island in (New) Metlakatla, AK in addition to live mainly on Annette Island in (New) Metlakatla, AK in addition to settlements in Canada.settlements in Canada.

• House Types & SettlementsHouse Types & Settlements– Before contact, the people built their homes from red cedar, Before contact, the people built their homes from red cedar,

spruce & hemlock timber and planks. The houses roofed with spruce & hemlock timber and planks. The houses roofed with heavy cedar bark or spruce shingles ranged in size from 35’-40’ heavy cedar bark or spruce shingles ranged in size from 35’-40’ x 50’-100’, with some Haida houses being 100’ x 75’. All x 50’-100’, with some Haida houses being 100’ x 75’. All houses had a central fire pit. Generally, each house could hold houses had a central fire pit. Generally, each house could hold 20-50 individuals with a village size between 300-500 people.20-50 individuals with a village size between 300-500 people.

– Winter villages were along banks of streams or along saltwater Winter villages were along banks of streams or along saltwater beaches for easy access to fish. The location of winter villages beaches for easy access to fish. The location of winter villages gave protection from storms & enemies, drinking water and a gave protection from storms & enemies, drinking water and a place to land canoes. Houses were typically structured in a place to land canoes. Houses were typically structured in a single row and always faced the water.single row and always faced the water.

– Each local group had at least one permanent winter village with Each local group had at least one permanent winter village with various seasonal camps close to food resources. The houses various seasonal camps close to food resources. The houses held 20-50 people, usually of one main clan.held 20-50 people, usually of one main clan.

– In Eyak villages there were two potlach houses, outside of In Eyak villages there were two potlach houses, outside of which was a post topped with an eagle or a raven. The which was a post topped with an eagle or a raven. The southern Tlingit had tall totem poles in front of their homes and southern Tlingit had tall totem poles in front of their homes and northern Tlingit had fewer & shorter frontal totem polesnorthern Tlingit had fewer & shorter frontal totem poles


• Tools & TechnologyTools & Technology– Southeast Alaska’s environment is a temperate rain Southeast Alaska’s environment is a temperate rain

forest producing tall and massive trees. Wood was forest producing tall and massive trees. Wood was the most important commodity and was used for the most important commodity and was used for houses, totem poles, daily utensils, storage, cooking houses, totem poles, daily utensils, storage, cooking boxes, transportation, ceremonial objects, labrets and boxes, transportation, ceremonial objects, labrets and clothes.clothes.

– The tools used to make the wood into usable items The tools used to make the wood into usable items were adzes, mauls, wedges, digging sticks and after were adzes, mauls, wedges, digging sticks and after contact, iron.contact, iron.

– To cut the wood people used chipped rocks, bones, To cut the wood people used chipped rocks, bones, beaver teeth & shells.beaver teeth & shells.

– For light the Eyak used a clamshell with seal oil or For light the Eyak used a clamshell with seal oil or pitch and a lump of fat for a wick in the sleeping pitch and a lump of fat for a wick in the sleeping room. Dried hooligan were used as candles room. Dried hooligan were used as candles (sometime called candle fish) and hollowed (sometime called candle fish) and hollowed sandstone with cotton grass fashioned into wicks.sandstone with cotton grass fashioned into wicks.


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Adze.jpg

• Tools & Technology ContinuedTools & Technology Continued– Various means were used to harvest the seasonal Various means were used to harvest the seasonal

salmon runs.salmon runs.• Fish Weirs and traps were placed in streamsFish Weirs and traps were placed in streams• Holding ponds were built in the intertidal regionHolding ponds were built in the intertidal region• Dip nets, hooks, harpoons & spears were usedDip nets, hooks, harpoons & spears were used• A specialized hook, shaped in a ‘V’ or ‘U’ were used to catch A specialized hook, shaped in a ‘V’ or ‘U’ were used to catch

specific sized halibut.specific sized halibut.– Various baskets were used for cooking, storage and Various baskets were used for cooking, storage and

holding clams, berries, seaweed & water.holding clams, berries, seaweed & water.• The Tsimshian used baskets in the process of making ooligan oilThe Tsimshian used baskets in the process of making ooligan oil• Basket weaving techniques were also used for mats, aprons & Basket weaving techniques were also used for mats, aprons &

hats.hats.• Mats of woven cedar bark were used as room dividers and floor Mats of woven cedar bark were used as room dividers and floor

mats, as well as to wrap the dead prior to burial or cremation.mats, as well as to wrap the dead prior to burial or cremation.• The inner cedar bark was pounded to make baby cradle padding The inner cedar bark was pounded to make baby cradle padding

and clothing such as capes, skirts, shorts and blankets (shawls).and clothing such as capes, skirts, shorts and blankets (shawls).


• Culture & Social OrganizationCulture & Social Organization– In this culture, no central government exited.In this culture, no central government exited.– Each village & each clan house resolved its differences through Each village & each clan house resolved its differences through

traditional customs and practices; no organized gatherings for traditional customs and practices; no organized gatherings for discussions of national policy making took place.discussions of national policy making took place.

– Decisions were made at the clan, village or house level affecting Decisions were made at the clan, village or house level affecting clan members of an individual village or house.clan members of an individual village or house.

– The people had a highly stratified culture, consisting of high The people had a highly stratified culture, consisting of high ranking individuals/families, commoners and slaves.ranking individuals/families, commoners and slaves.

– Unlike today, marriages, unions were arranged by family Unlike today, marriages, unions were arranged by family members. members. • All four groups had an exogamous (marriage outside of their own All four groups had an exogamous (marriage outside of their own

group) matrilineal clan system – meaning that children trace their group) matrilineal clan system – meaning that children trace their lineage & names from their mother (not their father like in the lineage & names from their mother (not their father like in the European system).European system).

– This means the children inherit all rights through the mother, including the This means the children inherit all rights through the mother, including the use of the clan fishing, hunting & gathering land, the right to use specific use of the clan fishing, hunting & gathering land, the right to use specific clan crests as designs on totem poles, houses, clothing & ceremonial clan crests as designs on totem poles, houses, clothing & ceremonial regalia.regalia.


• Culture & Social Organization ContinuedCulture & Social Organization Continued– Moieties are two reciprocating halves of a clan system Moieties are two reciprocating halves of a clan system

(“one of two equal parts”)(“one of two equal parts”)• Eyak were organized into Raven & Eagle which equated to Tlingit Eyak were organized into Raven & Eagle which equated to Tlingit

Raven & Eagle/Wolf and also with Ahtna Crow & Sea GullRaven & Eagle/Wolf and also with Ahtna Crow & Sea Gull• In the Tlingit clan system, one moiety was known as Raven or In the Tlingit clan system, one moiety was known as Raven or

Crow, the other moiety as Eagle or Wolf depending on the time Crow, the other moiety as Eagle or Wolf depending on the time period. Each moiety contained many clansperiod. Each moiety contained many clans

• The Haida have two moieties, Eagle & Raven.The Haida have two moieties, Eagle & Raven.– The clans that fall under Haida Eagle would fall under the Tlingit The clans that fall under Haida Eagle would fall under the Tlingit

RavenRaven

– Phratries are four reciprocating parts of a clan systemPhratries are four reciprocating parts of a clan system• The Tsimshian phratries are Killerwhale (Blackfish), Wolf, Raven The Tsimshian phratries are Killerwhale (Blackfish), Wolf, Raven

& Eagle. The Tsimshian Killerwhale & Wolf are one side and their & Eagle. The Tsimshian Killerwhale & Wolf are one side and their opposite side are the Eagle & Raven.opposite side are the Eagle & Raven.

– The Gitksan have Fireweed & Wolf as their opposites to Eagle & The Gitksan have Fireweed & Wolf as their opposites to Eagle & RavenRaven



• ClothingClothing– All four groups used animal fur, mountain All four groups used animal fur, mountain

goat wool, tanned skins & cedar bark for goat wool, tanned skins & cedar bark for clothing.clothing.

– Hats made of spruce roots and cedar bark Hats made of spruce roots and cedar bark kept the rain off the head.kept the rain off the head.

• TransportationTransportation– The main means of travel was by canoesThe main means of travel was by canoes

•The people traveled regularly for seasonal The people traveled regularly for seasonal activities such as subsistence & trading.activities such as subsistence & trading.

•The Haida canoes were made from a single cedar The Haida canoes were made from a single cedar log up to 60’ in length and were a most highly log up to 60’ in length and were a most highly prized commodity.prized commodity.

Eyak, Tlingit, Haida and Eyak, Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian PeopleTsimshian People• Subsistence PatternsSubsistence Patterns

– The water supplied their main food.The water supplied their main food.• Salmon (King/Chinook, Silver/Coho, Red/Sockeye, Chum/Dog, Salmon (King/Chinook, Silver/Coho, Red/Sockeye, Chum/Dog,

Pink/Humpy)Pink/Humpy)• Steelhead, herring, herring eggs & ooligans (eulachon).Steelhead, herring, herring eggs & ooligans (eulachon).• Sea mammals & deep water fishSea mammals & deep water fish• Sea plants including seaweed (black & red), beach asparagus Sea plants including seaweed (black & red), beach asparagus

& goose tongue& goose tongue• Other plants such as berries & shootsOther plants such as berries & shoots• Land mammals including moose, mountain goats & deerLand mammals including moose, mountain goats & deer

– Clans owned the salmon streams, halibut banks, berry Clans owned the salmon streams, halibut banks, berry patches, land for hunting, intertidal regions & egg patches, land for hunting, intertidal regions & egg harvesting areas.harvesting areas.

– The food was seasonal & had to be preserved for the The food was seasonal & had to be preserved for the winter months and early spring. Food was preserved winter months and early spring. Food was preserved by smoking in smokehouses or was dried by wind or by smoking in smokehouses or was dried by wind or sun.sun.

Eyak, Tlingit, Haida and Eyak, Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian PeopleTsimshian People• Traditions & CeremoniesTraditions & Ceremonies

– Known for their potlaches & feasts.Known for their potlaches & feasts.• Potlaches are formal ceremoniesPotlaches are formal ceremonies• Feasts are less formal, but similar and are most common amongst Feasts are less formal, but similar and are most common amongst

the Haida. Feasts were used to pay a debt to the opposite clanthe Haida. Feasts were used to pay a debt to the opposite clan– EventsEvents

• High ranking clans or individuals were expected to give potlaches. High ranking clans or individuals were expected to give potlaches. – A potlach could also be given by a commoner in an effort raise his A potlach could also be given by a commoner in an effort raise his

position by doing so.position by doing so.– Except in the Haida tradition, the host would not raise his personal Except in the Haida tradition, the host would not raise his personal

status, but rather the status of his childrenstatus, but rather the status of his children

• Potlaches were held for funerals/memorials, the witness & validation Potlaches were held for funerals/memorials, the witness & validation of the payment of a debt, naming an individual, the completion of a of the payment of a debt, naming an individual, the completion of a new house, the completion of clan regalia, a wedding, the naming of new house, the completion of clan regalia, a wedding, the naming of a child, the erection of a totem pole or to rid the host of a shame.a child, the erection of a totem pole or to rid the host of a shame.

– Potlatches might last days & would include feasting, speeches, singing Potlatches might last days & would include feasting, speeches, singing & dancing.& dancing.

– Guests witness & validate the events & are paid with gifts during the Guests witness & validate the events & are paid with gifts during the ceremony.ceremony.

– There would be a feast, however a feast does not constitute a potlachThere would be a feast, however a feast does not constitute a potlach

• RegaliaRegalia– Chilkat & Raven’s Tail woven robes, painted tanned Chilkat & Raven’s Tail woven robes, painted tanned

leather clothing, tunics, leggings, moccasins, ground leather clothing, tunics, leggings, moccasins, ground squirrel robes, red cedar ropes, masks, rattles & squirrel robes, red cedar ropes, masks, rattles & frontlets.frontlets.• Chilkat robes were made of mountain goat wool & cedar Chilkat robes were made of mountain goat wool & cedar

warps. This weaving style is the only weaving that can create warps. This weaving style is the only weaving that can create perfect circles.perfect circles.

• Raven’s tail robes are also made of mountain goat woolRaven’s tail robes are also made of mountain goat wool• Some headpieces had frontlets that would have sea lion Some headpieces had frontlets that would have sea lion

whiskers and ermine.whiskers and ermine.• After contact, robes were made of blankets, usually obtained After contact, robes were made of blankets, usually obtained

from Hudson Bay trading company, adorned with glass beads from Hudson Bay trading company, adorned with glass beads & mother-of-pearl shells, along with dentalium & abalone & mother-of-pearl shells, along with dentalium & abalone shells.shells.

– Other items used included drums, rattles, whistles, Other items used included drums, rattles, whistles, paddles & staffs.paddles & staffs.

– Only clan regalia named & validated at a potlach could Only clan regalia named & validated at a potlach could be used for formal gatherings.be used for formal gatherings.


Inupiaq & St. Lawrence Island Inupiaq & St. Lawrence Island Yupik PeopleYupik People• Who are they and where are they located?Who are they and where are they located?

– The Inupiaq & St. Lawrence Island Yupik people or “Real The Inupiaq & St. Lawrence Island Yupik people or “Real People” are still hunting & gathering societies. People” are still hunting & gathering societies.

– They continue to subsist on the land & sea of north and They continue to subsist on the land & sea of north and northwest Alaska. Their lives evolve around the whale, walrus, northwest Alaska. Their lives evolve around the whale, walrus, seal, polar bear, caribou and fish.seal, polar bear, caribou and fish.

– The land & sea are host to unique groups of people.The land & sea are host to unique groups of people.• To the people of the north, the extreme climate is not a barrier, but To the people of the north, the extreme climate is not a barrier, but

a natural realm for a variety of mammals, birds & fish, gathered by a natural realm for a variety of mammals, birds & fish, gathered by the people for survivalthe people for survival

– The “real people” tended to live in small groups of related The “real people” tended to live in small groups of related families of 20-200 peoplefamilies of 20-200 people

– Population at time of contact included five main units:Population at time of contact included five main units:• 1,500 St. Lawrence Island Yupiit1,500 St. Lawrence Island Yupiit• 1,820 Bering Strait Inupiat1,820 Bering Strait Inupiat• 3,675 Kotzebue Sound Inupiat3,675 Kotzebue Sound Inupiat• 1,850 North Alaska Coast Inupiat (Tareumiut – ‘people of the sea’)1,850 North Alaska Coast Inupiat (Tareumiut – ‘people of the sea’)• 1,050 Interior North1,050 Interior North

Inupiaq & St. Lawrence Island Inupiaq & St. Lawrence Island Yupik PeopleYupik People• House Types & SettlementsHouse Types & Settlements

– The people used a variety of designs & materials, but three key The people used a variety of designs & materials, but three key features were common:features were common:• An underground tunnel entrance below the living level to trap cold An underground tunnel entrance below the living level to trap cold

airair• A semi-subterranean structure, using the ground as insulationA semi-subterranean structure, using the ground as insulation• A seal-oil lamp from soapstone or pottery for light, heat & cookingA seal-oil lamp from soapstone or pottery for light, heat & cooking

– Homes were usually made from sod blocks, sometimes laid over Homes were usually made from sod blocks, sometimes laid over driftwood or whalebone & walrus bone frames, generally dome driftwood or whalebone & walrus bone frames, generally dome shaped.shaped.

– The shape was usually rectangular (St. Lawrence Island homes The shape was usually rectangular (St. Lawrence Island homes were circular). The rectangular houses generally were 12-15ft x were circular). The rectangular houses generally were 12-15ft x 8-10ft holding 8 to 12 people. 8-10ft holding 8 to 12 people.

– In the summer many of these houses flooded when the ground In the summer many of these houses flooded when the ground thawed, but most people had already moved to their summer thawed, but most people had already moved to their summer camps.camps.

– Community houses, called qargis were used as a work area in Community houses, called qargis were used as a work area in Inupiaq settlementsInupiaq settlements

Inupiaq & St. Lawrence Island Inupiaq & St. Lawrence Island Yupik PeopleYupik People

This photo demonstrates the construction of the home. Entrances were not as seen here, but rather through an underground tunnel entrance below the living level to trap cold air.

Inupiaq & St. Lawrence Island Inupiaq & St. Lawrence Island Yupik PeopleYupik People• Culture & Social OrganizationCulture & Social Organization

– Family & bartering connections were respectful & Family & bartering connections were respectful & meaningful. meaningful.

– Division of labor was by gender.Division of labor was by gender.– Competitive games tested strength & stamina of Competitive games tested strength & stamina of

participants; also song duels, exchanging & other participants; also song duels, exchanging & other activities were part of the culture.activities were part of the culture.

• Traditional Subsistence PatternsTraditional Subsistence Patterns– Depended upon location & season of the resources Depended upon location & season of the resources

such as whales, marine mammals, fish, caribou & such as whales, marine mammals, fish, caribou & plantsplants• Whales & sea mammals were hunted in the coastal & island Whales & sea mammals were hunted in the coastal & island

villagesvillages• Pink & chum salmon, cod, inconnu & whitefish were fished Pink & chum salmon, cod, inconnu & whitefish were fished

whenever ice formed; herring, crab & halibut were also caughtwhenever ice formed; herring, crab & halibut were also caught• Birds & eggs formed an important part of the dietBirds & eggs formed an important part of the diet

Inupiaq & St. Lawrence IslandInupiaq & St. Lawrence IslandYupik PeopleYupik People• Traditional Tools & TechnologyTraditional Tools & Technology

– The traditional tool kit had a variety of stone, wood, bone & ivory tools made for The traditional tool kit had a variety of stone, wood, bone & ivory tools made for butchering, tanning, carving, drilling, inscribing, sharpening & flaking.butchering, tanning, carving, drilling, inscribing, sharpening & flaking.

– The bow drill was an important tool used for starting fires, drilling holes in wood, The bow drill was an important tool used for starting fires, drilling holes in wood, bone & ivory. bone & ivory.

– Hunting equipment & tool kits are kept in different containers.Hunting equipment & tool kits are kept in different containers.– A package of toggle-headed harpoons, lances, lines & seal bladder floats was A package of toggle-headed harpoons, lances, lines & seal bladder floats was

used for the bowhead whale huntused for the bowhead whale hunt– Seal skin floats are used for whale hunts, as are water-filled seal bladders which Seal skin floats are used for whale hunts, as are water-filled seal bladders which

attract & lead bowhead whales closer to shore.attract & lead bowhead whales closer to shore.– Other tools included scratching boards for attracting seals to breathing holes, Other tools included scratching boards for attracting seals to breathing holes,

bows, arrows, spears, spear throwers, bolas for taking birds & snares.bows, arrows, spears, spear throwers, bolas for taking birds & snares.– Fishing gear includes nets, traps made from branches & roots & hooks.Fishing gear includes nets, traps made from branches & roots & hooks.– The umiaq/angyaq is a large open skin boat, 15 – 25 feet long (50 ft long near The umiaq/angyaq is a large open skin boat, 15 – 25 feet long (50 ft long near

Kotzebue)Kotzebue)• It is used for hunting whale & walrus, travel & bartering. A large umiaq could carry up It is used for hunting whale & walrus, travel & bartering. A large umiaq could carry up

to 15 people and a ton of cargoto 15 people and a ton of cargo– The kayak, a closed skin boat, is typically for one personThe kayak, a closed skin boat, is typically for one person– The basket sled is used for land travel. A flat sled is used for hauling large skin The basket sled is used for land travel. A flat sled is used for hauling large skin

boats across the ice.boats across the ice.– Snowshoes are used in interior regions. Snowshoes are used in interior regions. – Small sleds attached in the bottom of a skin boat transport the watercraft across Small sleds attached in the bottom of a skin boat transport the watercraft across

the ice.the ice.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Umiaq_skin_boat.jpg

Inupiaq & St. Lawrence Inupiaq & St. Lawrence Island Yupik PeopleIsland Yupik People• ClothingClothing

– Consisted of outer & inner pullover tops (parkas or Consisted of outer & inner pullover tops (parkas or kuspuks / qiipaghaq – the outer garment); outer & kuspuks / qiipaghaq – the outer garment); outer & inner pants, socks & boots (kamiks).inner pants, socks & boots (kamiks).

– Tops & pants were made of caribou skin with the fur Tops & pants were made of caribou skin with the fur facing inward on inner garments and outwards on facing inward on inner garments and outwards on outer.outer.

– The woman’s pullover had a larger hood for carrying The woman’s pullover had a larger hood for carrying small children – except on St. Lawrence Island – small children – except on St. Lawrence Island – where they do not carry the baby in the parka.where they do not carry the baby in the parka.

– Gloves were made from various skins with the fur Gloves were made from various skins with the fur turned inside and usually connected with a leather turned inside and usually connected with a leather strip around the neck.strip around the neck.

– Waterproof outer garments made from sea-mammal Waterproof outer garments made from sea-mammal intestines completed the wardrobe.intestines completed the wardrobe.

http://www.tikigaq.com/uploads/images/peeps/kidnparkatn.jpg

• Ceremonial / BeliefsCeremonial / Beliefs– Both groups believe in reincarnation and the Both groups believe in reincarnation and the

recycling of spirit forms from one life to the recycling of spirit forms from one life to the next, both human & animal. Names of those next, both human & animal. Names of those who died recently are given to newborns.who died recently are given to newborns.

– Only if animal spirit are released can the Only if animal spirit are released can the animal be regenerated and return for future animal be regenerated and return for future harvest. This explains the elaborate harvest. This explains the elaborate treatment of animals killed.treatment of animals killed.

Inupiaq & St. Lawrence Island Inupiaq & St. Lawrence Island Yupik PeopleYupik People

Yup’ik and Cup’ik PeopleYup’ik and Cup’ik People

• Who are they and where are they located?Who are they and where are they located?– The southwest Alaska Natives are named after the The southwest Alaska Natives are named after the

two main dialects of the Yup’ik language, known as two main dialects of the Yup’ik language, known as Yup’ik and Cup’ik. Yup’ik and Cup’ik.

– The estimated population at the time of contact was The estimated population at the time of contact was Nunivak 500, Yukon-Kuskokwim 13,000 and Bristol Nunivak 500, Yukon-Kuskokwim 13,000 and Bristol Bay 3,000. Bay 3,000.

– The Yup’ik and Cup’ik still depend upon subsistence The Yup’ik and Cup’ik still depend upon subsistence fishing, hunting and gathering food. fishing, hunting and gathering food.

– Elders tell stories of traditional ways of life, as a way Elders tell stories of traditional ways of life, as a way to teach the younger generations survival skills and to teach the younger generations survival skills and their heritage.their heritage.

Yup’ik and Cup’ik PeopleYup’ik and Cup’ik People• Traditional House Types & SettlementsTraditional House Types & Settlements

– Yup’ik & Cup’ik people were historically mobile, traveling with Yup’ik & Cup’ik people were historically mobile, traveling with the migration of game, fish and plants.the migration of game, fish and plants.

– Ancient settlements & seasonal camps contained small Ancient settlements & seasonal camps contained small populations, with numerous settlements throughout the region populations, with numerous settlements throughout the region consisting of extended families or small groups of families.consisting of extended families or small groups of families.

– All males in some Yup’ik/Cup’ik communities live in a qasgia or All males in some Yup’ik/Cup’ik communities live in a qasgia or men’s house / community center. men’s house / community center. • Boys old enough to leave their mothers joined male relatives in the Boys old enough to leave their mothers joined male relatives in the

qasgiq, where they lived, worked, ate, bathed, slept & learned how qasgiq, where they lived, worked, ate, bathed, slept & learned how to be men.to be men.

• Women prepared and brought food to the qasgiq.Women prepared and brought food to the qasgiq.• Ceremonies, singing, dancing & events usually occurred in the Ceremonies, singing, dancing & events usually occurred in the

qasgiq, thus making it a community center.qasgiq, thus making it a community center.– Women and children lived in an ena which had architectural Women and children lived in an ena which had architectural

features similar to the qasgiq, but it was ½ the size. Bearded features similar to the qasgiq, but it was ½ the size. Bearded seal or walrus intestine provided a removable ‘skylight’ window. seal or walrus intestine provided a removable ‘skylight’ window. Like most other winter dwellings, the qasgiq and the ena Like most other winter dwellings, the qasgiq and the ena shared the distinctive, partially semi-subterranean winter shared the distinctive, partially semi-subterranean winter entrance passageway – which in an ena also provided space for entrance passageway – which in an ena also provided space for cookingcooking

Yup’ik and Cup’ik PeopleYup’ik and Cup’ik People• Tools & TechnologyTools & Technology

– Technology was highly adapted to survival in the sub-arctic Technology was highly adapted to survival in the sub-arctic environment and was fine-tuned through the centuries by trial environment and was fine-tuned through the centuries by trial and error. Technology was mostly geared toward the marine and error. Technology was mostly geared toward the marine environment along the coast and more riverine habitats in the environment along the coast and more riverine habitats in the delta regions.delta regions.

– Women’s important household items included the versatile, fan-Women’s important household items included the versatile, fan-shaped, slate knife (uluaq), stone seal-oil lamp & skin sewing shaped, slate knife (uluaq), stone seal-oil lamp & skin sewing implements made from stone, bone & walrus ivory. implements made from stone, bone & walrus ivory. http://www.isuma.tv/lo/en/arnait/qulliq-oil-lamphttp://www.isuma.tv/lo/en/arnait/qulliq-oil-lamp

– Men’s tools were associated with hunting and were elaborately Men’s tools were associated with hunting and were elaborately decorated with appropriate spiritual symbols to aid in hunting decorated with appropriate spiritual symbols to aid in hunting success. These items included a variety of spears, harpoons, success. These items included a variety of spears, harpoons, snow goggles, ice cane & bow and arrows for hunting and snow goggles, ice cane & bow and arrows for hunting and warfare.warfare.

• ClothingClothing– Traditionally, skins of birds, fish & marine and land animals were Traditionally, skins of birds, fish & marine and land animals were

used to make clothing. used to make clothing. – Hunting clothes were designed to be insulated and waterproof.Hunting clothes were designed to be insulated and waterproof.

• Fish skin & marine mammal intestines were used for waterproof Fish skin & marine mammal intestines were used for waterproof shells and boots. Grass was used to make insulating socks & as shells and boots. Grass was used to make insulating socks & as waterproof thread.waterproof thread.

http://www.isuma.tv/lo/en/arnait/qulliq-oil-lamp

http://www.brandonsd.mb.ca/waverly/taylor/Inuit%20of%20Bathurst/unique_to_the_north.htm


• Culture & Social OrganizationCulture & Social Organization– Social culture and behavior were all geared toward survival Social culture and behavior were all geared toward survival

& compatibility among family-village groups. & compatibility among family-village groups. – Cultural roles and social rank were largely determined by Cultural roles and social rank were largely determined by

gender & individual skills.gender & individual skills.– Successful hunters, nukalpiit, usually become group Successful hunters, nukalpiit, usually become group

leaders.leaders.– Women roles included child rearing, food preparation and Women roles included child rearing, food preparation and

sewingsewing• Role of shamanRole of shaman

– There were good & evil shamans that had separate roles There were good & evil shamans that had separate roles within the villagewithin the village• Good shamans would heal, search out animal spirits for the hunters, Good shamans would heal, search out animal spirits for the hunters,

ask for survival necessities such as driftwood & good weather.ask for survival necessities such as driftwood & good weather.• Bad shamans battled good shamans for power, placed curses on Bad shamans battled good shamans for power, placed curses on

people, generally made life miserable for others and could even kill.people, generally made life miserable for others and could even kill.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Edward_S._Curtis_Collection_People_008.jpg


• TradeTrade– Coastal villages traded with the inland villages for items not Coastal villages traded with the inland villages for items not

locally availablelocally available– Seal oil was highly desirable by inland villages who usually Seal oil was highly desirable by inland villages who usually

bartered moose/caribou meat & furs such as mink, marten, bartered moose/caribou meat & furs such as mink, marten, beaver & muskrat for seal oil & other coastal delicacies such as beaver & muskrat for seal oil & other coastal delicacies such as herring and herring eggsherring and herring eggs

• Traditions & CeremoniesTraditions & Ceremonies– Yup’ik and Cup’ik people organized their lives according to the Yup’ik and Cup’ik people organized their lives according to the

animals & plants that they hunt and gather.animals & plants that they hunt and gather.– Families came together & dispersed according to the seasons.Families came together & dispersed according to the seasons.– Most settlements & camps were occupied by extended families Most settlements & camps were occupied by extended families

or small groups of families.or small groups of families.– Elaborate winter ceremonies emphasized the relationship Elaborate winter ceremonies emphasized the relationship

among humans, animals & the spirit world.among humans, animals & the spirit world.

ResourcesResources

• Alaska’s Digital Archives Alaska’s Digital Archives http://vilda.alaska.edu/cdm4/pathway.php http://vilda.alaska.edu/cdm4/pathway.php

• Alaska Native Heritage Center Alaska Native Heritage Center http://www.alaskanative.net/http://www.alaskanative.net/

• Chandonnet, Anne Chandonnet, Anne Alaska’s Native PeoplesAlaska’s Native Peoples• Langdon, Steve J. The Native People of Alaska: Langdon, Steve J. The Native People of Alaska:

Traditional Living in a Northern LandTraditional Living in a Northern Land• Microsoft Encarta Online Encyclopedia 2009 Microsoft Encarta Online Encyclopedia 2009

http://encarta.msn.comhttp://encarta.msn.com• Oil Lamp Video: Oil Lamp Video:

http://www.isuma.tv/lo/en/arnait/qulliq-oil-lamphttp://www.isuma.tv/lo/en/arnait/qulliq-oil-lamp

http://www.alaskanative.net/

http://encarta.msn.com/

http://www.isuma.tv/lo/en/arnait/qulliq-oil-lamp

cultures of alaska

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