Oral knowledge and traditions
In 1500, most Indigenous Peoples on Turtle Island (now known as North America) had no written language. Instead, things of the past, knowledge and traditions were passed down orally. From a very young age, children understood the importance of listening to the stories of their elders. In this way, what was told from one generation to another was not forgotten.
Wisdom passed down by Elders and Storytellers
Among the stories passed down from generation to generation, legends are particularly important. Iroquoian peoples use legends to explain natural phenomena or events, like how the world was created. The legends of Indigenous Peoples often involved animals.
Author: Service national du Récit de l’univers social
Important concepts and big ideas:
Animism – Animisme
Oral Tradition – Tradition orale
Oral Tradition – Tradition orale
Indigenous Spirituality – Spiritualité indigène