Unit Rationale
Description
This unit provides an introduction to Native American religion, and an overview of the interaction of Native Americans with European settlers between 1500 and the present.
Purpose
This unit will provide an introduction to Native American religion and spirituality. Specifically, students will examine the characteristics of Native American religion such as myths, symbols and rites of passage.
Using both primary and secondary sources, students will also examine issues of religious liberty when Europeans first settled in America and later when these settlers sought to convert Native Americans to Christianity.
Finally, students will research and discuss current issues involving Native Americans and religious liberty.
This unit provides an introduction to Native American religion, and an overview of the interaction of Native Americans with European settlers between 1500 and the present.
Purpose
This unit will provide an introduction to Native American religion and spirituality. Specifically, students will examine the characteristics of Native American religion such as myths, symbols and rites of passage.
Using both primary and secondary sources, students will also examine issues of religious liberty when Europeans first settled in America and later when these settlers sought to convert Native Americans to Christianity.
Finally, students will research and discuss current issues involving Native Americans and religious liberty.
Objectives
Essential Questions
- Understand the significance and meaning of spirituality within Native American cultures.
- Appreciate the economic, political, environmental and legal restrictions that have been and continue to be placed upon the practice of Native American religions and culture.
- Recognize the diverse cultures and religious traditions of Native America.
- Develop an understanding of the role of key participants in Native American sacred rituals, including tricksters/clowns, shamans, and priests.
- Analyze issues of religious liberty facing Native Americans today.
Essential Questions
- What are indigenous religions?
- Identify and explain key terms related to indigenous religions.
- Identify cultural consequences for Native Americans as a result of forced schooling.
- How did forced schooling (reeducation) reveal cultural misunderstandings between white settlers and Native peoples.
- Describe Native American culture and government before conquest.
- In what ways was the issue over the Dakota Pipeline religious?
- Should Native Americans be allowed to use peyote as part of their religious services?