Snow goggles that predate sunglasses, sleek kayakers, and the legacy of the Iroquois Confederacy—these are just a few of the Native American inventions and contributions that have shaped the world we live in today. A deeper dive into these ingenious technologies and influential cultural practices illuminates how Native American heritage remains woven into the fabric of contemporary life.
Gaetana DeGennaro, a museum specialist at the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, stresses the importance of recognizing these contributions: “And many of these innovations continue today and it’s important that these contributions to the world are known,” she points out. This is a sentiment echoed by John Bickers, Associate Professor of History and a citizen of the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma, who emphasizes that Native Americans are responsible for numerous inventions often taken for granted.
Snow goggles, a necessity for the Inuit and Yupik Indians in snow-covered environments, were designed to reduce glare and prevent snow blindness. DeGennaro explains their significance, “They would fit snugly across your eyes and they would have slits and these slits would reduce the amount of glare coming into your eyes.” They are considered a precursor to modern sunglasses.
The versatile kayak, created by the Indigenous people of the Arctic, was crafted from driftwood and animal bones, and coated with water and windproof aquatic skins. As DeGennaro notes, the design was “very sleek in design and easy to maneuver.”
Lacrosse, originally a game called stickball played by the Haudenosaunee people, was not just a sport but also a means to resolve disputes. The transformation of this game over centuries has obscured its origins and spiritual significance to Native communities. “It’s more to what they’re just playing as a sport, more spirituality to it,” says DeGennaro.
The hammock, innovated by the Taino people and documented by Christopher Columbus, provided a cool and safe place to sleep. DeGennaro remarks, “The beds were portable so you can take it from place to place, you can put it up in your home or you can put it outside.”
Another remarkable feat of engineering is the suspension bridge, pioneered by the Incas. Constructed using woven grasses and animal hair, these bridges demonstrated impressive tensile strength. DeGennaro affirms, “They were so strong that you could walk across and you could bring llamas and carry loads.” This same technique is mirrored in the construction of iconic modern bridges.
Furthermore, as highlighted by Bickers, the Iroquois Confederacy of New York served as an inspiration for numerous founding fathers, including Benjamin Franklin, during the formation of the early United States.
The individuals representing the diverse Native American tribes across the United States boast a vibrant and storied history that remains dynamic and evolving. Their influence resonates across various facets of contemporary life, contributing to dispelling past negative stereotypes linked to their heritage and culture.
“Native peoples have contributed numerous inventions and innovations that frequently go unrecognized,” he stated. As DeGennaro aptly puts it, “There’s a lot of things around you that you don’t know come from Native Americans, and you may use them every day.”
Relevant articles:
– 5 ancient Native American inventions that are still used in our modern world, CNN
– Native American Traditions, pluralism.org
– The Native American story: A history of accomplishments, case.edu