The Great Basin cultural area is defined by the distribution of groups of people with similar languages and cultural features. This cultural area includes Utah and Nevada, as well as portions of Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, Oregon and California. Through the ages tribes such as the Fremonts, Anasazi, Southern Paiute, Shoshone, and Ute lived in this area. However, with the great expansion into the western frontier in the mid-1800's, the federal government attempted to relocate many Native Americans to reservations and assimilate them into Anglo culture and lifestyle. As a result, many aspects of Native American culture were lost.
The teaching kit contains:
Actual examples of tools, ceramic vessels, and plant and animal artifacts representative of the cultures of the Great Basin region
Modern crafts such as Ute bead work, leather work, and basketry
Reference works and children's books
Audio and video tapes highlighting the various cultures
Posters, slides and overheads
Lesson plans and activities
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