Arapaho

Dividing Roles, Duties by Gender

Men and women had different roles in the tribes. While women were the caretakers of the home, men were the warriors and hunters, responsible for defending their families and providing food. However, both genders shared in the rich oral storytelling, traditional medicine, music, craftwork, and artwork. They were renowned for their bead-work and quill embroidery, used on moccasins, clothing, bags, and tepees. The tribal members existed in small bands that were determined by birth. They could move between the bands at will. They used dog-pulled travois (drag sleds) before Europeans introduced them to horses. They became expert horseback riders and traveled much greater distances with horses. Their primary weapon was the bow and arrow, but they were also skilled with spears and used hide shields to protect themselves.

Men and women also dressed differently. Even though each gender wore their hair in two long braids, usually wrapped in fur, the women sometimes painted their hair red, while the men attached feathers to their hair. At times the men mimicked the Sioux and wore impressive headresses. The women donned long buckskin dresses or split skirts, while the men wore leggings and breechcloth. Both wore moccasins and buffalo hide robes to stay warm. They used bright paint on their faces for specific occasions, like religious rituals, festive decorations, or war.

They were deeply spiritual people who believed in the connections between themselves, animals, and the land. They also revered the wisdom of the elders. The nucleus of their beliefs revolved around the Be He Height (Overall Creator). They exercised their spiritual beliefs in dance rituals, which provided them with visions and a link to their ancestors.

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