Native American Tribes and Economies in the American West Quiz

Native American Economies in the Pacific Northwest

• The primary economies of Native American tribes in the Pacific Northwest were based on salmon fishing, gathering, and hunting.

Impact of Westward Expansion on Plains Indians

• The primary resource lost by the Plains Indians due to westward expansion was the bison, which was crucial for their survival, providing food, clothing, and shelter.
• The destruction of the bison population led to the loss of their traditional way of life.

Railroads and Bison Population

• Railroads contributed to the decline of the bison population by providing access to the Great Plains, allowing hunters to easily transport bison hides and meat to markets.

Westward Expansion and Native American Self-Sufficiency

• Westward expansion led to the loss of Native American lands, resources, and autonomy, making it difficult for them to support themselves and maintain their traditional economies.

Pioneers and Disease Transmission

• Pioneers brought diseases such as smallpox, measles, and cholera to Native American populations, who had no immunity to these diseases, leading to devastating epidemics and a significant decline in Native American populations.