Background
Founded by the Native Americans, the culture along the banks of the Mississippi River region has been in existence since the time of the early hunter-gatherer societies. The Mississippi River Valley was one of the largest regions in the United States that was heavily settled by Native American tribes, and because of this, it had a huge influence on the course of American history. At its height, the Mississippian culture that grew in the region, was known for its complex social and economic organization as well as its great art and craftsmanship.
Archaeological Findings
Many archaeological sites have been found throughout the Mississippi River Valley that help give an understanding of the Mississippian culture. At many of the sites, there are burial mounds and earthen structures that provide evidence of the settlement and development of the region. From these discoveries, it has been determined that the Mississippian culture began about 800 AD and lasted for about four hundred years.
In order to survive and flourish, it took a system of agriculture, which the Native Americans pioneered in the form of a three levels system the most sophisticated ever developed by a people in North America. At the top was corn, at the bottom were beans and squash, and in between were sunflowers and several other crops. This type of complex farming increased productivity and sustained the large population.
Trade and Religion
The Mississippian people also had a strong trading system, thanks to goods like pottery, mica and seashells that were produced in large quantities. On the religious front, artifacts found during excavations point to a belief system that was tied closely with nature and the seasons. The most prominent evidence of this religion is the huge number of burial mounds that dot the landscape, constructed according to very precise patterns and layouts.
Decline and Legacy
The Mississippian culture eventually declined around 1400 AD due to a combination of factors, such as over harvesting and unsustainable farming practices. In addition, conflicts with the Europeans, the spread of diseases and environmental changes also contributed to its downfall. Nonetheless, the legacy of the Mississippian culture is still alive today and has had an enduring influence on the broader American culture.
Agricultural Techniques
One of the most important aspects of the Mississippian culture was their agricultural techniques. They adopted intensive farming practices, which allowed them to support large populations, and this is evident from the amount of maize being produced in the region. This maize was used for sustenance, as well as for trade and barter.
In addition, the Mississippian people introduced other aspects of advanced agriculture, such as crop rotation and the use of fertilizers. This allowed them to maximize the output of their fields and support a large population.
Population and Society
The Mississippian culture had a hierarchical social structure, with men at the top, followed by women and then children. They had a strong political system, with important religious and political leaders. They also had a well-developed judicial system, with laws in place to punish crimes.
At the peak of their civilization, the Mississippian culture had a population of about two million people, which was concentrated in the larger cities like Cahokia and Moundville.
Art and Craftsmanship
Perhaps the most amazing aspect of the Mississippian culture was its art and craftsmanship. They created beautiful pottery, made from different types of clay, and also intricate jewelry and sculptures. It is also noted for its wonderful textiles that were made from plants and animal hides.
The Mississippian culture was also known for its complex mythology and religious beliefs, which were deeply ingrained in its art and architecture.
Lifestyle and Religion
The Mississippian lifestyle was heavily centered around their religious beliefs, which was a combination of polytheism, ancestor cult and ancestor veneration. This religion was heavily tied to the seasons, with rituals and ceremonies taking place at specific times of the year.
The Mississippian culture focused heavily on the use of music, dance and games, which were all seen as essential parts of their spiritual and social life. As such, the Mississippi River valley was an important part of the development of early American music and art.
Social Structure and Economy
The social structure of the Mississippian culture was structured around the central religious and political leaders. The economy was largely agrarian and based on subsistence farming. In addition, trade and barter were an important part of the culture and it is believed that the Mississippian people were some of the first to use currency, namely in the form of seashells.
The society was largely matrilineal, meaning that inheritance was passed down through the female line. This was likely due to the importance of food production, which was largely managed by the women.
Conclusion and Summary
The Mississippi River valley was the home of a vibrant and advanced civilization, the Mississippian culture, founded by Native Americans. This culture had a huge impact on the course of American history, thanks to its complex social and economic systems and its great art and craftsmanship. Archaeological discoveries, including burial mounds, have provided insights into the lifestyle, economy and religion of this ancient society, which is still influential today.
