Plains Culture

The post outlines the cultural history of the Plains Indians, dividing it into prehistoric (pre-Columbian) and historic periods. With limited written records, reliance is placed on observations and archaeological findings. Key cultural characteristics include their nomadic lifestyle, dependence on buffalo, and later adaptation to horse culture introduced around 1540. The post traces significant changes from the horse culture era through the establishment of reservations, culminating in the gradual Americanization and cultural diminishment of the Plains tribes by the late 19th century.