During the 20th century, the native people of Alaska began to receive more attention from the rest of United States. Although the origin of the word “Eskimo” is unclear, many think it originated from a Cree word meaning “raw meat eaters” or an Ojibwa word for “snowshoe netter.” Regardless, many Inuit people feel that “Eskimo” is a derogatory word. There are three main groups of native people from Alaska: Aleut, Yup’ik, and Inuit. These are broad divisions based on language, and within these larger groups are smaller bands.
Alaskan Natives place a lot of importance upon the extended family. Perhaps the geographical distance from the rest of the United States has allowed the Alaskan Natives to retain more of their traditional beliefs and customs.
At one time, the most important man in a band was the whaling captain. He had to be wealthy to be able to afford boats and equipment. Members of a captain’s crew were often his extended family. Today, the equipment is slightly more modern, but whaling continues to be a chief subsistence activity for many native communities. In the autumn months, whalers take to the open sea in motor boats. In
Alaskan drummer, early 1900s.
The spring, whaling crews camp on the edge of the ice.
Regulatory groups and environmental issues have limited the amount of whaling that can be done, yet whaling is also a ceremonial activity for many communities. Ceremonies show respect for the whale. When the wife of the whaling captain pours fresh water into the newly caught whale, it’s believed to help the whale’s soul return to the spirit world. As with other Native American cultures, every part of the animal is used. Whale meat, skin, and blubber are distributed to everyone in the community. Alaskan Natives have deep ties to the animals and land around them. Environmental concerns like global warming and endangered animals affect their entire culture.
In order to live off nature in extreme weather conditions, Alaskan Natives had to be physically and mentally fit. One way to prepare for the hardships of daily life was to gather in villages for athletic games and contests. Similar to the Olympics, these games tested speed, agility, strength, and endurance. These gatherings were also a time to share news, stories, and friendships.
The tradition of village athletic games was re-created in 1961 with the World Eskimo Olympics. It started as part of the Eairbanks Golden Days Celebration, with performances
Alaskan Native family, early 1900s.
World History
