• Age: 9
• Grade: 4

The northwest coast of the Pacific Ocean has been home to many Native nations for thousands of years. The waters, mountains, and forests of this isolated region provided food and shelter for groups such as the Tlingit, the Haida, and the Kwakiutl. Topics covered in Nations of the Northwest Coast include: • the distinct customs, cultures, and beliefs of the various nations • dwellings used in different seasons and locales • fishing and the use of coastal plants and animals • traditional handicrafts, including carving and weaving • the organization of families, clans, and moieties • the impact of the arrival of the Europeans

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Nations of the Northwest Coast

Part of the “Native Nations of North America” series featuring a two-page-per-chapter format with colourful illustrations, this book provides insight through a number of sidebars. Information is included on the Tlingit, Haida and Tshimsian of the north; the Kwakwaka’wakw, Haisla and Makah of the central region; and the Salish of the southern peoples. Chapters include information about clans, food, shelter, transportation, trade, the potlatch and what the arrival of Russian and British fur traders meant to the Aboriginal peoples. Variations in foods, shelters and other items were dependent on the location of the bands. These areas were rich in natural surroundings with the cedar tree being an important element.

Smithyman has co-authored several books with Kalman.