Unit 1: 1491-1607

Topic 1.2: Native American Societies Before European Contact

Cultures Of Central and South America: Three developed civilizations were the center-points of native populations, which included the Mayas (Guatemala, Belize, and Southern Mexico), the Aztecs (Central Mexico), and the Incas (Peru). These communities were able to develop their own calendars, and trading systems across the continent. One of the most crucial parts of Native living was the crop corn, or maize. Potatoes were another well established and relied on part of life.

Cultures of North America: With smaller populations in their respective societies, Native Americans that weren’t from Mexico and South America tended to have less complex social structures. The latter were able to cultivate larger populations and different structures because of their intense corn production, which was plentiful, and fed more people. However, by the 15th century, many populations had disappeared, or dwindled in size. Settled areas were usually less than 300 people, with the men hunting and toolmaking, and women planting or gathering.

Language was very diverse among Native communities, with most languages originating from 20 different language families, which accounted for over 400 languages. Their land was also a very diverse experience, as Native Tribes spanned all across the continent, giving way to many different groups and lives.

In the Southwest, people lived in caves, cliffs, and even buildings. Their society was able to flourish due to the spread of maize, which boosted their economy, leading to changes in class among Native Americans. Meanwhile, in the Northwest, plank houses were popular, plus people were able to hunt for seafood, as well as forage for berries and nuts. High mountains ranges dominated the area, and to keep stories and history alive, they carved it into totem poles. Then, in the Great Plains, people had more nomadic tendencies. Buffalo were a major source of food, as well as other aspects of life, like tools, or clothing. Teepees were convenient, but didn’t tie them down to one place. In the Mississippi River Valley, many relied on fishing and agriculture, being one of the largest settlements, with about 30,000 people. In the Northeast, generations of families lived in longhouses that spanned to 200 feet. And finally, in Atlantic settlements, many lived in lodgings along river banks, relaying on these rivers for fish.

Topic 1.3: European Exploration in the Americas

The European Context for Exploration: Previous trips to North America were unimpactful, but after Columbus stumbled upon the continent, there was consistent contact among new people in North America.