Native American culture has had a significant impact on American society, from agriculture to language and social structures. Early European settlers learned farming techniques from Native American tribes, and the English language has been influenced by over 2,000 Native American words. Native American social structures were matrilineal, and women played important roles in decision-making. The Iroquois model of government influenced the formation of the United States government, and the bald eagle became the nation’s symbol.
The United States was formed on land that was, for centuries, home to numerous Native American tribes. Subsequently, after a long history of conflict and peace, the United States formed as a union influenced by both European and Native American culture. The result was a unique and ever-evolving shared history and culture. From language to structures within society, Native American culture has played an important role in influencing the historical and everyday development of American culture.
Perhaps one of the best-known Native American influences in the United States is in agriculture. Early European settlers learned from various native tribes how to farm the land effectively, especially when they were growing crops unknown to Europeans. Corn was a staple crop for many Native American tribes, and today it is one of the most important crops grown and exported in the United States.
Another aspect of American culture that has been influenced by Native Americans is the English language. More than 2,000 Native American words have contributed or helped develop words in the English language. Additionally, many names, such as city and state names, regions, and more, come from Native American words. Such names help focus the history of certain regions and give importance to Native American influence in the regions. As Europeans encountered new animals, plants, and weather phenomena, they often adopted Native American names, which are still in use today. For example, mahogany and hickory are variations on Native American words for certain types of trees.
Native American culture in many tribes dictates that social structures be matrilineal, meaning that family lines are drawn through females rather than males, which was in contradiction to European cultures. Native American women actively participated in both domestic and public decision-making, making women important figures in the day-to-day functions of many tribes. In one sense, this hierarchy was a model for women’s rights.
Governmental structures in the United States have also been influenced by native cultures. For example, Iroquois leaders were frustrated with trade with individual U.S. colonies, so they urged Benjamin Franklin and other leaders to form a strong, centralized, and representative government based essentially on the Iroquois model. Eventually, the United States adopted a model similar to that of the Iroquois and even adopted the Iroquois Nation symbol, the bald eagle, as its nation’s symbol.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
