A Native American Thought of It
by Rocky Landon with David MacDonald
Amazing inventions and innovations from North America's First Nations.
Everyone knows that moccasins, canoes and toboggans were invented by
the Aboriginal people of North America, but did you know that they also
developed their own sign language, as well as syringe needles and a
secret ingredient in soda pop?
Depending on where they lived,
Aboriginal communities relied on their ingenuity to harness the
resources available to them. Some groups, such as the Iroquois, were
particularly skilled at growing and harvesting food. From them, we get
corn and wild rice, as well as maple syrup.
Other groups,
including the Sioux and Comanche of the plains, were exceptional
hunters. Camouflage, fish hooks and decoys were all developed to make
the task of catching animals easier. And even games-lacrosse, hockey
and volleyball—have Native American roots.
Other clever inventions and innovations include:
- Diapers
- Asphalt
- Megaphones
- Hair conditioner
- Surgical knives
- Sunscreen.
With descriptive photos and information-packed text, this book explores
eight different categories in which the creativity of First Nations
peoples from across the continent led to remarkable inventions and
innovations, many of which are still in use today.