Native Americans Past & Present
How many Native Americans are alive today?
Over five million.
In "The Origin of Stories," what did Gaqka have to give the mountain for a story?
Tobacco
Why was Thomas King going on a road trip with his brother?
To photograph contemporary Native Americans.
Who is Joy Harjo?
First Native American (Muscogee Creek) appointed as poet laureate of the United States. She is the author of books of poetry, plays, and memoirs. She is also a musician.
How many federally recognized Native American tribes were there in the U.S. (as of 2020)?
Over 570.
Who/what is the "keeper of stories" in Native American cultures?
The land.
In Thomas King's essay, he tells us about his travels to New Zealand on a ship. The ship's cook says to King, "You're not the Indian I had in mind." Why does he say this?
King didn't look like the "Indians" described in the Wild West books the cook had read.
What Joy Harjo poem is this a summary of?
We sing, create, laugh, pray, and cry at the kitchen table.
"Perhaps the World Ends Here"
Name the two federally recognized Native American tribes in Florida.
The Seminole and the Miccosukee.
According to "The Milky Way," what causes a solar eclipse?
Toad-frog eats the sun until it disappears.
He was Native American (Cherokee).
What Joy Harjo poem begins with these lines?
"Put down that bag of potato chips, that white bread, that bottle of pop./ Turn off that cell phone, computer, and remote control."
"For Calling the Spirit Back from Wandering the Earth in Its Human Feet"
Who was Betty Mae Jumper?
The first female chief of the Seminole Tribe of Florida.
What does "The Origin of Stories" tell us about the role of women in Seneca culture?
Wives play a supportive role to their husbands, but they have a lot of influence over their husbands and they often know better than their husbands what needs to be done.
At the end of his essay, King says, "The photographs themselves are no longer the issue. Neither are the questions of identity. What's important are..." What?
"...the stories I've heard along the way."
Which Joy Harjo poem alludes to Sandra Cisneros' The House on Mango Street?
"Speaking Tree"
Though each Native American tribe has its own language and culture, they share some common beliefs and values. What are some of these?
Respect for plants, animals, and the earth, and a belief in the interdependence of all life.
In "Man's Dependence on Animals," how do the animals decide to become free of the humans?
They decide to each speak in their own language so that humans won't be able to communicate with them.
Why does Thomas King think stories are important?
Stories shape how others see us and how we see ourselves.
Which Joy Harjo poem contrasts "the mind" and "the heart"?
"This Morning I Pray for My Enemies"