Twelve Stories of the Plains Indians

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Joshua J. Mark
by
published on 25 January 2024
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The stories of the North American Natives articulate and preserve their culture and history. Although the indigenous Nations of North America were, and remain, diverse, storytelling was central to every community, whether a small village or the entire Nation. These stories expressed the cultural and religious beliefs of the people, passing them down generation to generation.

The following are twelve Native American stories from the Plains Indians culture of Nations including the Cherokee, Cheyenne, Ojibwe, Pawnee, and Sioux. Among them are hero tales, ghost stories, origin stories, and others of cultural relevance.

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Questions & Answers

When were the stories of the Plains Indians Culture composed?

The date of Plains Indians' stories composition is unknown as they were passed down orally for centuries before they were committed to writing in the 18th-19th centuries.

Who told the stories of the Plains Indians originally?

The medicine man (shaman) of the village was often also the keeper of the stories. There were also storytellers who were not necessarily medicine men. Women also told these stories to the children, especially grandmothers.

What are the stories of the Plains Indians Culture about?

The stories of the Plains Indians cover many culturally relevant topics including religious subjects, the afterlife, proper behavior, warfare, daily life, ghost stories, and hero tales.

Are the stories of the Plains Indians Culture told today?

Yes. The Plains Indians Nations still exist and continue to tell their traditional stories.
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About the Author

Joshua J. Mark
Joshua J. Mark is World History Encyclopedia's co-founder and Content Director. He was previously a professor at Marist College (NY) where he taught history, philosophy, literature, and writing. He has traveled extensively and lived in Greece and Germany.

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