Hope Thatcher
Intro. Cultural Anthropology
Dr. Janis McFaul
February, 6 2012
The Navajo nation is the largest native tribe in the United States. They are a society built on harmony with Mother Earth. They believe that everything has a purpose whether it be good or evil. They rely on the land for nourishment and medicine. They are a proud tribe and have close family unity. The Navajo are a peaceful tribe and strong in values.
Introduction I will discuss a few interesting topics with you in this essay. The Navajo Nation, is in my option, is one of the most beautiful tribes. The name “Navajo” comes from the Pueblo Indian word for planting fields. The name was given to this tribe because they were farmers. The Navajo ways of family structure is strong and proud. Children do not want to disappoint their parents. Harmony is a daily goal. The respect for one another is a beautiful thing. “The basic principle of K”e ', meaning relationships comprised of kindness, love, cooperation, thoughtfulness, friendliness, and peacefulness guides interaction among family members in the extended matrilineal kinship network and among clan members”. (Morgan, F. 2002; Witherspoon 1983) The Navajo nation are proud people who are deserving of great respect. Their harmonious ways could be a template for others to follow.
Horticulturalist
“The Navajo were traditionally cultivators, although many now herd sheep, which they acquired from the Spanish”. (Hutchinson Unabridged Encyclopedia) They have four primary plants that they harvest; beans, corn, squash, and tobacco. Corn being the most important. The Navajo share a spiritual connection with Mother Earth, so knowledge and respect of the plants
References: Denetdale, J. Chairmen, Presidents, and Princesses :The Navajo Nation, Gender, and the Politics of Tradition Wica 20 Sa Review, Vol. 21, no. 1., Spring 2006 p. 13 University of Minnesota Press. DOI: 10. 1353/wic. 2006.0004 Lee, L. The Future of Navajo Nationalism wicazoSa Review, vol.22, no.1., Spring 2006 p.54 University of Minnesota Press DOI: 10.1353/ wic. 2007.0008 Navajo. (2010) The Hutchinson Unabridged Encyclopedia with Atlas and Weather guide. Retrieved from http://www.credoreference.com/ entry/ heliconhe/navajo Encyclopedia of Medical Anthropology:Health and Illness in the World 's Cultures. Dordrecht: Springer Science & Business Media 2004.s.v. “Navajo” http://www.credoreference.com/entry/sprmedanth/navajo