- Varied, from highly stratified societies to egalitarian groups
- Kinship-based, often organized into clans or tribes
- Strong sense of community and cooperation
- Gender roles varied, but women often played important roles in society
Political Organization
- Range of political systems, from hereditary chiefdoms to democratic councils
- Decisions often made by consensus
- Emphasis on maintaining balance and harmony
Economic Systems
- Subsistence economies based on hunting, gathering, fishing, and agriculture
- Trade and barter between different groups
- Gift-giving and reciprocity important economic principles
Religious Beliefs and Practices
- Varied, but often included belief in a creator deity and a spirit world
- Many ceremonies and rituals connected to nature and the cycles of life
- Shamans or medicine men played important roles in religious ceremonies and healing
Art and Cultural Expression
- Rich artistic traditions, including music, dance, painting, sculpture, and storytelling
- Art often used to express spiritual beliefs and cultural values
- Oral traditions and storytelling were important ways of preserving and transmitting culture
Environmental stewardship
- Indigenous cultures had a deep understanding of the natural environment and often developed sustainable practices for managing resources.