History of North America

How did the Natchez live?

Lifestyle:

- The Natchez lived in villages along the Mississippi River in present-day Louisiana.

- They were farmers, hunters, and gatherers.

- They grew crops such as corn, beans, and squash.

- They hunted animals such as deer, rabbits, and turkeys.

- They gathered fruits, berries, and nuts.

- The Natchez were also skilled craftsmen.

- They made pottery, baskets, and textiles.

- They also carved wood and made jewelry.

Social Structure:

- The Natchez were divided into several social classes.

- The highest class was the nobles.

- The nobles were the leaders of the Natchez and owned most of the land.

- The middle class was the commoners.

- The commoners were the farmers, hunters, and gatherers.

- The lowest class was the slaves.

- The slaves were captured from other tribes or were people who had been sentenced to slavery by the Natchez.

Religion:

- The Natchez believed in a pantheon of gods.

- The most important gods were the Sun, the Moon, and the Earth.

- The Natchez also believed in spirits that inhabited the natural world.

- They performed ceremonies to honor the gods and spirits and to ask for their help.

Culture:

- The Natchez had a rich culture that included music, dance, and art.

- The Natchez played drums, rattles, and flutes.

- They also sang and danced.

- The Natchez produced beautiful art, including pottery, basketry, and sculpture.