Long before European explorers arrived, the land we know as Wisconsin was home to many groups of indigenous peoples. Each of these Native populations had their own rich, meaningful cultures.
In this unit, we will learn about the history of American Indians in Wisconsin, exploring their diverse origins, lifestyles, and cultural traditions. We will also discuss the consequences of European settlement on Native peoples’ ways of life and the continuing presence of American Indians in Wisconsin today.
WI Content Standards (3-5th Grade)
SS.BH.2.a.4-5 | SS.Geog2.c.5 | SS.Hist.4
Objectives
Identify different groups of people through time (period) and culture, based on archaeological and historical evidences.
Understand the role of archaeology in researching and telling history.
Identify shared experiences and differences of experience between cultures. (i.e. hunting, recreation, storytelling, transportation)
Describe the presence and influences American Indian peoples have through time and in Wisconsin today.
Video & Recorded Media
American Indians People of Wisconsin. Paleo & Mound Cultures. Run Time 10:41 minutes
American Indian People of Wisconsin. Historic Period to Today. Run Time 20:08 minutes
Activities and Downloads
Place Names in Waukesha County
Storytelling: Three Sisters & Invisible Warrior
Effigy Mounds Activity
Primary and Secondary Resources
Distribution of Burial Mounds in Wisconsin, Map
Gathering Wild Rice, 1941, Image
Winnebago Women in Native Dress, Image
Burial Mounds in Waukesha’s Cutler Park, Image
American Indian Burial Ground in Wisconsin, Image
Four Winnebago Natives with a U.S. Census Taker, Image
And Beyond, additional sources of information
Encyclopedia of Milwaukee: Native Milwaukee
Encyclopedia of Milwaukee: Indigenous Milwaukee in the Age of Empire
Encyclopedia of Milwaukee: Powwows
Wisconsin Indians Image Gallery, Milwaukee Public Museum
The Ways: Great Lakes Native Culture and Language
Wisconsin First Nations: American Indian Studies in Wisconsin
