Ancient history

What elements of Native American culture did Europeans adopt?

Agriculture

- Europeans adopted many Native American crops, including corn, beans, squash, and potatoes. These crops became staples of the European diet and helped to improve nutrition and food security.

- Native Americans also taught Europeans about new agricultural techniques, such as crop rotation and irrigation. These techniques helped to increase agricultural yields and improve farming efficiency.

Hunting and Fishing

- Europeans learned from Native Americans about new methods of hunting and fishing, such as the use of bows and arrows, traps, and nets. These techniques helped Europeans to exploit the natural resources of the Americas more effectively.

Medicine

- Europeans adopted many Native American herbal remedies and treatments, such as the use of willow bark for pain relief and foxglove for heart problems. Native American medicine also influenced the development of modern Western medicine.

Art and Music

- Europeans were inspired by Native American art and music, which they incorporated into their own artistic traditions. Native American motifs, such as feathers, arrows, and thunderbirds, can be seen in European paintings, sculptures, and music.

Language

- Europeans adopted many Native American words, such as "canoe," "moccasin," and "tobacco." These words have become part of the English language and are used by people all over the world.