Biology Forums - Study Force

How did the environment influence the cultures of the Northwest and Southwest?

The environment was instrumental in changing the lives of Native Americans, as they were so close to nature that it became their traditions, their folklore. Nature offered them everything they had and it was providential for the maintenance of the way they lived, many natives found it difficult.

The environment played a significant role in shaping the American Indian cultures of the northwest and southwest. In the northwest, the abundant natural resources such as salmon, shellfish, and cedar trees allowed for a sedentary lifestyle and the development of complex societies with a rich artistic and cultural heritage. The environment also influenced their social and economic systems, as they relied heavily on fishing and hunting for their livelihoods.

In the southwest, the arid and rugged terrain shaped the way of life for the American Indian cultures. The scarcity of water and fertile land led to a nomadic lifestyle, where tribes moved from place to place in search of resources. The environment also influenced their architecture, as they built homes using adobe and other materials that were readily available in the region.

Overall, the environment played a crucial role in shaping the American Indian cultures of the northwest and southwest, influencing their social, economic, and cultural practices.