Author Description
Summarizes what is known of the aboriginal culture forms and practices of about 60 California tribes. Describes the environment, prehistoric archeology, historical archeology, language classification, culture, population numbers since the time of European discovery, and the history of exploration and settlement by Whites.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This volume investigates the cultural, linguistic, and historical development of approximately 60 indigenous tribes within the California region. Compiled by the Smithsonian Institution, this reference work synthesizes archaeological data, historical records, and ethnographic research to provide a comprehensive overview of aboriginal life from pre-contact periods through the era of European settlement. The text serves as a foundational academic resource for understanding the demographic shifts and environmental adaptations of California's native populations.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- Detailed linguistic classifications of California tribal groups
- Archaeological evidence regarding prehistoric and historical settlement patterns
- Demographic analysis of population fluctuations following European contact
- Documentation of traditional cultural practices and environmental interactions
Scope Limits
- Does not provide exhaustive biographies of individual tribal leaders
- Excludes contemporary political developments post-dating the publication period
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Scholars and researchers frequently cite this volume as an essential, authoritative reference for the study of California indigenous cultures. Readers often note the high density of academic data and the rigorous, encyclopedic nature of the entries provided.
Page Count:
816
Publication Date:
1978-06-17
Publisher:
Smithsonian Institution Scholarly Press
ISBN-10:
0160045746
ISBN-13:
9780160045745
History
Politics & Social Sciences
Ethnic Studies
Native American
Physical
California history
Reference
Ethnography
Anthropology
Cultural