The Anasazi were not a Native American tribe, but a label for residents in the Four Corners region. They are the ancestors of modern Pueblo people and are sometimes referred to as Ancestral Pueblos. The culture remains mysterious, but they were farmers who also hunted and gathered. They spoke several languages, wore woven clothes, and had religious beliefs centered on nature. Pueblo societies were matrilineal and matrilocal, with clan affiliation determined by female bloodline.
Contrary to popular belief, there was never a Native American tribe known as the Anasazi. This term is a descriptive label used to classify residents who lived in the Four Corners region of northeastern Arizona and northwestern New Mexico, as well as adjacent areas of Colorado and Utah, between 1 and 1300 AD The Anasazi are the ancestors of the modern Pueblo people.
In archaeological research, the Anasazi are often referred to as Ancestral Pueblos or Ancient Pueblo People. Even some of the modern Puebloans dislike the term Anasazi. The etiquette is based on a Navajo word meaning “ancient foreigner” or “ancient enemy.” This has led some groups to argue that Anasazi is essentially an ethnic slur.
The Anasazi culture still remains somewhat mysterious. Since the Anasazi lived so long ago, all evidence of their daily life is indirect. Additionally, there is often disagreement among archaeologists about various aspects of ancient Pueblo culture.
The Anasazi were farmers, but most also spent a good deal of time hunting and gathering to protect their families from the danger of crop failure caused by drought or cold weather. They lived in pueblos made of clay that covered a latticework of sticks and was anchored to a row of foundation stones. Many of these pueblos were multi-family dwellings, as expanding an existing pueblo was an easier task than building a new home.
Archaeologists believe the ancient Pueblo people may have spoken several languages, including Tewa, Tiwa, Keresan, Zuni, and Hopi. They wore clothes that were woven on large vertical looms and often made necklaces, bracelets, earrings, bangles, and hairpins from bone, wood, coral, turquoise, or slate. Loafers, sandals, and snowshoes were the Anasazi footwear of choice.
Anasazi religious activities were often based on a belief in the importance of nature and harmony with the world. Careful observation of the stars, moon, and sun was a vital part of Old Puebloan culture. There were many prayers and rituals designed to encourage successful hunting and farming. Key religious figures within the Anasazi culture were prominent members of the community selected for their family lineage as opposed to ecstatic visions.
Traditionally, Pueblo societies were matrilineal and matrilocal. Clan affiliation was typically determined by female bloodline, with children belonging to the mother’s clan. When a woman married, she was expected to have her new husband move into her family home. However, Anasazi men enjoyed special positions of civil authority.
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