Native+Culture

=**Welcome To The Native Culture Page!** = 


 * Manitou**

One aspect of the Algonquin culture was the belief in manitous. or spirits from nature. These spirits could cause harm or good. The manitous were believed to speak to the religious leaders or shamans in their dreams and visions. With your group, choose one of the aspects of nature that your nation would experience and create a manitou. When creating it, describe what the spirit is and how it causes harm or good to your people.

How does it help your people? How does it hurt your people?

**Creation Stories** The Iroquois also used their observations to create their creation story. Creation stories not only explained how their world came to being but it also taught a lesson. Click on the following links to read creation stories from around the world.  **Creating Your Creation Story** Used the outline below to help you plan your creation story.  Be Honest Be fair Treat Nature With Respect Be Careful What You Wish For  Wind Water Trees Fruits/Vegetables Soil Sky Animals Snow Rain
 * [|Magic Tails]
 * What lesson will your story teach?
 * Based on your list of nature list, who will be your characters?

• What was the Earth like before it was created?

• Which character helped create the Earth?

• What was the problem?  Before Earth began, there was... __One day,___. So, ___ Then... Finally... And that is how...
 * Creation Story Transitions


 * Creating A Festival**

• The Iroquois and Algonquins had many festivals that celebrated their relationship with nature. Think about the Manitou you just picked and create a celebration to honor the spirit. Use the chart below to outline your festival.

Why did they celebrate?

When will it take place?

What food will they eat?

How will they celebrate the festival?

Will there be any special dances or songs? __One day,___. So, ___ Then... Finally... And that is how...


 * Creating A Festival**

• The Iroquois and Algonquins had many festivals that celebrated their relationship with nature. Think about the Manitou you just picked and create a celebration to honor the spirit. Use the chart below to outline your festival.

Why did they celebrate?

When will it take place?

What food will they eat?

How will they celebrate the festival?

Will there be any special dances or songs?