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6. Name 3 parts of the buffalo used for warfare.

  • Horns acted as arrow straighteners, bones were crafted into knives, raw hide was used as shields
  • Shields were made from flattened skulls, bones sharpened to from arrows, horns were used as knives
  • Tanned hide worn as disguises during ambushes, swords made from bones, hooves used as ammunition for catapults
  • Hair used as fletchings on arrows, bones used as bows, raw hide used as shields

7. What were 2 key features of tipis and how did they help overcome the problems?

  • Had a waterproof layer to protect against heavy rain. Bottom of tipi rolls up to let in air, and flaps act as shade from the sun.
  • Poles used as travois, could be packed in 10 minutes. Made of 10-20 buffalo hides, required little wood.
  • Holes in the sides acted as ventilation for the high temperatures. Conical, bottom-heavy shape to prevent blowing over.
  • Built flat to the ground to prevent damage from high winds. Flaps at the top could be opened up to allow smoke from fires to escape.

8. What were 3 of the 5 main challenges faced by Plains Indians?

  • High speed winds, extremes in temperature and the need to move frequently.
  • Extinct food source, high speed winds and no weapons.
  • Lack of wind, no food and the low temperatures
  • High temperatures, lack of shelter and rough terrain