Glossary

These are some interesting terms that we have come across in our research. How many do you know?

crane

A leader's group...a specific totem...named for the crane because it has a distinctive voice and all the birds stop to listen.

fox

Often male...the fox tricks other characters in myths by being sneaky and sly.

longhouses

Long, wooden houses that accomodated the extended family.

rabbit

Appears commonly as a trickster and culture hero.

racket

Oval-shaped wooden frames made with caribou hide and used as snowshoes.

reservation

Government land that tribes live on.

Someone Powerful

The creator of all things.

Spider Woman

Often plays helper...or one who is dangerous in Native American mythology. She also taught weaving to humans.

thunderer

The protector of righteousness.

totem

A clan or group of the Chippewa Tribe. The different ones were the Ottawa, Potawatomi, Sac, Fox and Menominee.

Utah

State name gotten from the Ute Tribe.

Ute Bulletin

Official newspaper of the Ute Tribe.