Native American History
The history of America begins not with the first European explorers to visit the continent but with the American Indians who lived here long before the Europeans first sailed to North American shores. Understanding Native American history, including the cultures and customs of the various Indian tribes, is an essential part of understanding U.S. history.
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Insights for Native American History
- Because American Indian culture is such an integral part of U.S. history in general, you’ll find Web sites providing Native American history throughout this guide. See, for example, the “European Explorers and Colonists in America” and the “Early United States History” sections.
- The first inhabitants of North America have historically been referred to by many names, including “Native Americans” and "American Indians," all of which have been contested. In this guide, you'll see the terms “Native Americans” and "American Indians" used interchangeably to refer to the many people who lived in North America before European settlers arrived.
- Christopher Columbus mistook the first people he saw in the new world for individuals from the West Indies, as he initially thought he had sailed there. That is where the term “Indian” comes from to describe these North American tribes.
Top Sites for Native American History
University of Washington Libraries
presents "Native American History," which is especially valuable for its collection of photos and other images of American Indians. You’ll also find many links to other sites, arranged both chronologically and by region.
Carnegie Museum of Natural History
focuses on American Indian nations from four different geographic areas: the Tlingit of the Northwest Coast, Hopi of the Southwest, Lakota of the Plains and the Iroquois of the Northeast.
Scholastic
provides an overview of the Anasazi and Pueblo Indians, including their history, culture, climate and geography. Look for more information on Native Americans in the links recommended at the end of the article.
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