Kutenai Embarking
The Kutenai are a Native American tribe that lives in the Pacific Northwest and the Rocky Mountains. They are noted for their strong spiritual beliefs, hunting skills, and lively cultural traditions. Edward S. Curtis photographed two Kutenai natives prepared to leave on an unknown mission in their canoe. The river is an appropriate location for the shot, as neighboring tribes referred to the Kutenai as “Skalzi,” or “lake and water people.” The Kutenai were treated with great respect by both their neighbors and the growing colonists. Their culture, while enslaved individuals, was deemed progressive at the time because there were neither high hierarchies or harsh consequences for transgressions.
Kutenai Embarking
Papoose
The Apache people, who lived mostly in the southwestern United States, are known for their warrior rituals, deep spiritual link with the land, and enduring cultural legacy that has been passed down for generations. This photograph depicts a devoted Apache mother carrying her smiling infant safely wrapped in their “papoose.” The name “papoose” comes from Algonquian and translates simply as “child.” The phrase was also expanded to include the highly strong cradleboard in which many Native American children found themselves wrapped. The term has generated considerable debate because it was used as a catch-all to describe Native American youth. In the 17th century, a Puritan pastor compiled a book of Native American languages, which introduced the term “papoose” into common usage.
Papoose
