The Native Americans were the first people who lived in North America (long

before Columbus reached itin 1492); probably they came from Asia through
Alaska. They spread across the entire continent and have lived in different regions.

When the European settlers arrived, they tried to claim the land of the Native Americans and tried
to destroy them. No wonder they have been fighting for their rights for a long time. Many of
them have been discriminated during the course of history. Even today many Native Americans
face poverty and unemployment. Alcoholism is a common problem among the Native
Americans.

They have lived in reservations. Today there are about 550 recognised reservations in the USA.
However, a very high percentage of all Native Americans live in urban areas (about 75%).

The Native Americans have always respected nature; they have used natural resources such as
stone, clay, straw and wood to build their homes (lodges, wigwams, teepees)

Some of them have hunted buffalos for meat and their skin, which was used for different
purposes – food, clothing and shelter. They rode horses to follow buffalo herds. (The Plains
Indians were nomads. )

The Native Americans have also been farming and fishing. They were either gatherers, hunters or
fishers.

Their culture has always been unique. Beautiful pottery has been made out of clay. They used

wood from the forests to carve tall totem poles. The carvings on each totem pole told about a
family’s history.

They became skilled weavers of blankets, rugs, and baskets. The Indians became expert
craftsmen of the canoe.

Native Americans did not use written language. Stories were passed from generation to
generation through story telling and songs. Songs and dance were very important part of their
heritage during holidays and special celebrations.

Today there are about 5 million American Indians and Alaska natives.