Understanding Native American History

What is a "Winter Count" in Yanktonai history?

• A record of notable events between first snowfalls.

• A calendar system tracking seasonal changes.

• A collection of stories passed down orally during winter.

• A census of tribal members taken each winter.

What is a significant issue regarding the teaching of Native American history in US schools?

• Most textbooks dedicate an excessive number of pages to Native American history.

• Standards primarily focus on Indigenous Peoples in a pre-1900 context, neglecting contemporary issues.

• Students are not interested in learning about Native American history.

• There is a lack of education of Native American history.

Approximately how many Native tribes or nations exist within the United States?

• Fewer than 100

• Between 100 and 200

• Over 500

• Exactly 374

What is the broadest definition of "Indigenous" people?

• People who are recognized by a federal government.

• People who have been living in a particular place since before settlers arrived.

• People who identify as Native American.

• People who live on reservations.

Why is the term "American Indian" sometimes problematic, despite its frequent use in US laws and treaties?

• It is a newly coined term that lacks historical context.

• It only applies to Native Nations in Alaska and Hawaii.

• It does not officially include all Indigenous peoples, only federally recognized tribes in the contiguous 48 states.

• It implies that all Indigenous people are from India.

How did Native people in North America typically identify themselves before the arrival of European settlers?

• As "Indians" or "Native Americans."

• By their specific tribal or nation names, such as Dee-ni' or Anishinaabeg.

• As a unified "First Nations" collective.

• They did not have specific identity categories.

What was the underlying goal of the "Blood Quantum" system implemented by the federal government for Native people?

• To accurately track tribal lineage and preserve cultural heritage.

• To determine eligibility for federal benefits and services.

• To gradually eliminate Native people and their land claims by diluting their perceived "Indian blood."

• To promote intermarriage between Native and non-Native populations.

What is a common misrepresentation of Native American history in public education?

• It often focuses too heavily on pre-colonial achievements.

• It frequently begins with European arrival in 1492, implying a lack of significant history before that time.

• It overemphasizes the diversity of Native nations.

• It typically extends too far into contemporary issues, neglecting historical context.

How do Native peoples' oral traditions contribute to historical knowledge, as exemplified by the Crater Lake story?

• They provide fictional narratives that inspire cultural pride.

• They offer scientific explanations for natural phenomena.

• They preserve accurate historical accounts of events that occurred thousands of years ago.

• They serve as a form of entertainment during tribal gatherings.