Hopi

Hopi Indian Research

Hopi (contraction of Hópitu, ‘peaceful ones,’ or Hópitu-shínumu, ‘peaceful all people’: their own name). A body of Indians, speaking a Shoshonean dialect, occupying 6 pueblos on a reservation of 2,472,320 acres in north east Arizona. The name “Moqui,” or “Moki,” by which they have been popularly known, means ‘dead’ in their own language, but as a tribal name it is seemingly of alien origin and of undetermined signification—perhaps from the Keresan language (Mósi(cha in Laguna, Mo-ts in Acoma, Mótsi( in Sia, Cochiti, and San Felipe), whence Espejo’s “Mohace” and “Mohoce” (1583) and Oñate’s “Mohoqui (1598). Bandelier and Cushing believed the … Read more

Hopi Tribe

Hopi Indians (contraction of Hópitu, ‘peaceful ones,’ or Hópitu-shínumu, ‘peaceful all people’: their own name). A body of Indians, speaking a Shoshonean dialect, occupying 6 pueblos on a reservation of 2,472,320 acres in northeast Arizona. The name “Moqui,” or “Moki,” by which they have been popularly known, means ‘dead’ in their own language, but as a tribal name it is seemingly of alien origin and of undetermined signification – perhaps from the Keresan language (Mósǐcha in Laguna, Mo-ts in Acoma, Mótsǐ in Sia, Cochiti, and San Felipe), whence Espejo’s “Mohace” and “Mohoce” (1583) and Oñate’s “Mohoqui (1598). Bandelier and Cushing believed the Hopi country, the later province of Tusayan, to be identical with the Totonteac of Fray Marcos de Niza.

Hopi Archeology

Hopi archeology reveals a complex history of village construction and abandonment as different clans migrated across the Southwest, leaving behind numerous ruins, primarily in present-day Arizona and New Mexico. These sites extend from the Rio Colorado to the Rio Grande and include remains from diverse linguistic and cultural groups. Significant ruins like Awatobi, Sikyatki, and Walpi highlight the varied origins and artistic achievements of the Hopi people, who trace their heritage through these ancient settlements. Archaeological investigations by institutions like the Bureau of American Ethnology have explored many of these sites, offering insights into the intricate blending of cultures that shaped present-day Hopi society.

Hopi Characteristics and Customs

The Hopi people, known for their peaceful disposition, possess distinctive physical characteristics such as reddish-brown skin, high cheekbones, and straight or wavy hair, often styled according to age and gender. Their cultural practices reflect a strong sense of community, artistry, and industriousness. The Hopi are known for their craftsmanship in pottery, basketry, and weaving, and they are quick-witted, hospitable, and generally peaceable. Their social structure values monogamy, with strong marital fidelity and a rarity of crime. Children are raised with respect for their elders and a focus on industriousness and moral behavior. Traditional clothing varies by gender, with men typically wearing breechcloths, moccasins, and jewelry, while women don woven blankets, mantas, and intricate hair ornaments.

Asa Tribe

Asa (Tansy: mustard), A phratral organization of the Hopi, comprising the Chakwaina (Black Earth kachina), Asa  Kwingyap (Oak), Hosboa (Chapparal cock) , Posiwu (Magpie), Chisro (Snow bunting), Puchkohu (Boomerang hunting-stick), and Pisha (Field-mouse) clans. In early days this people lived near Abiquiu, in the Chama River region of New Mexico, at a village called Kaekibi, and stopped successively at the pueblos of Santo Domingo, Laguna, Acoma, and Zuñi before reaching Tusayan, some of their families remaining at each of these pueblos, except Acoma. At Zuñi their descendants form the Aiyaho clan. On reaching Tusayan the Posiwu, Puchkohu, and Pisha clans … Read more

Hopi Indians

The Hopi Indians, whose name is derived from “Hópitu,” meaning “peaceful ones,” are a Puebloan tribe located primarily on three mesas in northeastern Arizona. Although their language belongs to the Shoshonean branch of the Uto-Aztecan family, they are distinct as the only Shoshonean group to adopt a Pueblo culture. The Hopi people have a rich history marked by migrations, village settlements, and interactions with Spanish explorers and missionaries beginning in the 16th century. Despite disruptions, such as the Pueblo Revolt of 1680, the Hopi maintained their cultural and social identity. Today, they are recognized not only for their unique blend of linguistic and cultural influences but also for ceremonies like the Snake Dance, which have drawn significant interest from scholars and the public alike.

Hopi Indian Bands, Gens and Clans

Many tribes have sub-tribes, bands, gens, clans and phratry.  Often very little information is known or they no longer exist.  We have included them here to provide more information about the tribes. Aiyaho (a red-topped plant). A Zuni clan, by tradition originally a part of the Asa people who afterward became Hopi. Ala-Lengya (horn-flute). A phratral group of the Hopi, consisting of the Ala (Horn) and Lengya (Flute) clans. Ala (horn). A phratry of the Hopi, consisting of the Horn, Deer, Antelope, Elk, and probably other clans. They claim to have come from a place in s. Utah called Tokonabi, … Read more

Indian Etiquette

The interior of most native dwellings was without complete partitions, yet each member of the family had a distinct space, which was as inviolable as a separate apartment enclosed by walls. In this space the personal articles of the occupant were stored in packs and baskets, and here his bed was spread at night. Children played together in their own spaces and ran in and out of that belonging to the mother, but they were forbidden to intrude elsewhere and were never allowed to meddle with anyone’s possessions. When more than one family occupied a dwelling, as the earth lodge, … Read more