The first occupants of the Great Plains came in many small bands during the last glaciation. Scholars disagree on the timing of the migration. Some argue for 28,000 years ago, others for a more conservative estimate of 12,000 to 16,000 b.p. (before the present), and others for prior to 28,000 years ago, during an earlier glaciation. The migrants mostly came across a land bridge between Asia and Alaska and moved south along the base of the Rockies, although other routes could have been used. Referred to as Paleo-Indians by archaeologists, these people hunted the large grazing animals that lived on the grasslands.
Contents
List of Maps
PART I: HISTORY AND CULTURE
Chapter 1. Introduction
Chapter 2. Encounters with Europeans: Trade Relations
Chapter 3. American Expansion: Trade and Treaties
Chapter 4. Reservation Life: 1880s – 1933
Chapter 5. The Self-Determination Era
PART II: PEOPLE, PLACES, AND EVENTS
PART III: CHRONOLOGY
PART IV: RESOURCES
1. Research: Methods and History
2. Bibliographies and Research Aids
3. Archaeology
4. Published Primary Sources
5. General and Comparative Studies
6. Tribal Studies
7. Selected Literary Works
8. Video and Film
9. Internet Resources
Includes bibliographical references and index.
