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5 Facts You May Not Know About Native American Heritage

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Native American history and culture go deep into the fabric of the United States, yet many aspects remain unfamiliar to most people. Today, over nine million Native Americans live in the United States, representing an indigenous group of people with a unique culture and rich traditions. Here are some intriguing facts that highlight the remarkable legacy of Native Americans.

Revolutionary Farming Techniques

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Native American farming methods transformed global food production. They planted corn, beans, and squash together in a technique called the “Three Sisters.” This planting system greatly benefited soil health and crop output. The unique Native American farming technique has spread worldwide, improving agriculture everywhere. The technique also made its way to Africa, particularly in countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and parts of Asia. 

Advanced Democratic Systems

PEMCO Webster & Stevens Collection, Museum of History & Industry, Seattle/Wikimedia

Long before Europeans set foot on American soil, many Native tribes had already developed sophisticated democratic systems. Take the Iroquois Confederacy, for instance. Founded around 1200 AD, this alliance later went on to inspire concepts like federalism, separate branches of government, and checks and balances. What’s truly remarkable is how their government operated. It featured elected officials, clever checks and balances, and even gave women equal roles in decision-making.

Rich Linguistic Diversity

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The languages of Native Americans are remarkably varied. Before European contact, they spoke over 300 different languages across North America. Many of those languages had diverse features that were not seen in European languages. Some used verb forms to show where information comes from and separate firsthand knowledge from secondhand reports. However, due to government assimilation initiatives, many of these languages no longer exist. 

Pioneering Medicinal Knowledge

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Native Americans significantly advanced medical practices and introduced Europeans to powerful natural remedies. They used willow bark, which contained salicin, which inspired the development of aspirin. They also utilized medicinal plants like foxglove, which led to modern heart medications. This traditional knowledge continues to influence contemporary pharmacology and herbal medicine.

Trailblazing Athletes

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Native American athletes have consistently broken barriers and set records across various sports. Take Jim Thorpe, for example. He was one of the greatest athletes of the 1900s, winning Olympic gold medals and excelling in football, baseball, and basketball. More recently, Notah Begay III became the first Native American on the PGA Tour. These achievements not only showcase individual talent but also inspire younger generations of Indigenous athletes to pursue their sporting dreams.

Written by Peterson Sorenson

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