Native America before colonization

America had large cities (some with pyramids) connected by trade networks long before the arrival of Europeans.

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Over the next two years, Seeing America will grow to include 100 videos, 18 essays, quizzes, discussion questions and lesson plans.

Paquimé jars
Paquimé jars

Connections between the southwestern U.S. and Mesoamerica are revealed in these vessels featuring parrots or macaws and a merchant

Teaching guide<br>Mississippian shell gorget
Teaching guide
Mississippian shell gorget

Found marking the grave of an important individual, this gorget was worn as a neck ornament during life. Mississippian culture was one of the most cosmopolitan Native American cultures prior to the arrival of Europeans. The city of Cahokia was an important hub for trade networks.
APUSH: KC 1.1.I.C

Clovis culture
Clovis culture

The first clear evidence of human activity in North America are spearheads used to hunt large game.

The Great Serpent Mound
The Great Serpent Mound

Many interpretations have been proposed for this mound in modern-day Ohio—examine the clues and see what you think.

The ancient community of Chaco Canyon
The ancient community of Chaco Canyon

Located in a high desert, Chaco’s residents dedicated much of their energy to controlling water for crops.

Mesa Verde: a home in the cliffs
Mesa Verde: a home in the cliffs

Remarkable structures in the American Southwest were home to cliff-dwelling farmers until around 1300.

America before Columbus
America before Columbus

Found marking the grave of an important individual, this gorget was worn as a neck ornament during life.