Native American Thought of It: Amazing Inventions and Innovations

by Rocky Landon, David MacDonald (Primary Contributor)

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, 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 the following: • Sunscreen • Surgical blades • Diapers • Asphalt • Megaphones • Hair conditioner 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.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Native Americans

48 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Julia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a bit dated (2008) but I found the visuals appealing and that it serves as a good primer for children to learn more about the impact that Native American innovation has had on North American history and development. It touches very briefly on the concept of colonial violence at the end, but given it's a children's book, was handled quite gingerly (I do think books like this serve as an important stepping stone for children and young people to be interested in Native and First Nations culture and history). Easy to understand prose and beautiful historical photos!

[Sue Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was the perfect addition to our homeschool library. We learned so many new things about the first residents of our country. Many of the inventions listed we had no idea they were invented by Native American. A true eye opener and page turner. Easy to read and lots of illustrations.

[Karin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of pictures and interesting facts about native peoples then and now.

[Karen Murphy · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very interesting listing of different Native American tools, inventions and innovations. It was very easy to read and would be excellent for children.

[Miriam]

Mostly cover Canada and NE U.S. A little about U.S. Southwest. Almost nothing about Cherokee and Seminole.

[Linda Gocha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very easy read and interesting.

[Claudia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting facts

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book for children and young adults to learn areas and items that Native Americans have created.