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Northwest Coast Southwest Mississippi Valley Northeast Woodlands Plains

 
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Introduction --
Whaling
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The whale was as important to these people as the buffalo was to the Plains people, and it was treated with equal respect. Only the high-ranking men of the society could hunt whales, a very dangerous activity considering that whales can weigh as much as 40 tons. Before whaling, they conducted ceremonies to ensure the cooperation of the whale. As the harpooned whale was brought to shore, the whole village came to meet it and honor it as a guest.

Chief's Rattle Makah Basket Transformation Mask Native Amercan History and Culture

 

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