The Origins Of The Makah Tribe - 1697 Words

The Makah tribe is a native American tribe who lived in Olympic Peninsula in Washington State for centuries. Makah people tended to descend their culture to one another and ran on their traditions through generations. Makah tribe practiced whale hunting in the past as one of their historical traditions when they were given permission after Treaty of Neah. The Makah harvested whale for provisions and countries-exporting values. But most people think it s demoralizing to kill a pure, innocent mammal like whale. As an outsider, we can’t go to conclusion and say their tradition is inhumane and needs to be stopped. If we put ourselves in their shoes, we could probably learn the truth behind the whaling process and decipher all the†¦show more content†¦They essentially believe that whale hunting was meant for them to honor the holy relationship of god and the beauty of this large beast. Whaling has always been the pivotal component that created the unique culture of the Mak ah. It was conducting on ritual and spiritual ceremony. For example, the elders usually found youngsters to be repulsive and disobedience. They basically discipline the children with the aggressive sense of whale hunting, so they can grow as a responsible adult who can surpass every obstacle. Whaling also tremendously boost the Indians’ pride. Archeologist Ruth Kirk found an artifact that was from the Makah whale tradition in 1970. He indicated that the Indians have sustained the culture for over 2,000 years. He found a part of â€Å"Chinook† canoe in his expedition which strengthen his report about the past life activities of Makah Indians. Chinook was specifically designed for the Makah to hunt whales at 40 miles off shores. Therefore, quality of the boat will determine fish caught successful rate. One boat should be solidly constructed that can carry approximately 8 people and strong enough to continue a 2-month sea voyage. Chinook â€Å"shovel-nose† model wa s the one with outstanding quality that could handle many possible sea waves. On the voyage, the Indians are well-prepared in weapon which was mussel-shape blade that sharp enough to penetrate the beast’s skin. The Makah Indians were initially ownedShow MoreRelatedThe Ojibway Culture Essay1290 Words   |  6 Pagesthere however, as white resort owners and sport fisherman began a campaign to harass and physically prevent the Wisconsin Chippewa from continuing their centuries old tradition of spear fishing, despite the court ruling in favor of the Chippewa. Makah filmmaker Sandra Osawas documentary Lighting The Seventh Fire accurately exposes the underlying motivation behind the Non-Indian forces working against Northern Wisconsins Chippewa people, and particularly those attempting to carry on their