Winter Counts

Front

What is a Winter Count?

Back

A Winter Count is a historical record used by the Lakota people to keep track of important events, often represented through pictures.

Front

How did the Lakota use pictures in their Winter Counts?

Back

The Lakota used pictures as a form of storytelling and record-keeping, replacing a traditional writing system.

Front

What role did the keeper of the Winter Count serve in the Lakota community?

Back

The keeper served an important role by maintaining the Winter Count and ensuring that significant events were recorded and remembered.

Front

What is the significance of snowfall in the context of Winter Counts?

Back

The Lakota measured years from snowfall to snowfall, marking the passage of time based on winter seasons.

Front

What does it mean when we say Winter Counts had unique designs?

Back

Each Winter Count had its own distinct designs that represented different events, but they all served the same purpose of recording history.

Front

Why is the job of the keeper considered demanding?

Back

The job of the keeper was demanding because it required dedication and attention to detail in recording events accurately.

Front

What can we infer about the selection process for a Winter Count keeper?

Back

Selecting a keeper was often a complicated process, as it required finding someone dedicated to the task.

Front

How do Winter Counts serve as calendars?

Back

Winter Counts functioned as calendars by marking significant events and the passage of time, helping the community keep track of years.

Front

What is the main purpose of a Winter Count?

Back

The main purpose of a Winter Count is to document and preserve the history and important events of the Lakota people.

Front

What does the term 'spectacular' mean in the context of events recorded in Winter Counts?

Back

In this context, 'spectacular' refers to events that are amazing to watch or significant in nature.