by Shayla Leach

Every November, Native American Heritage Month is celebrated to honor the rich cultures, traditions and contributions of both Native Americans and Alaskan Natives. 

Native American Heritage Month was officially designated in November of 1990 by President George H. W. Bush following a joint resolution passed by Congress. This month serves as a time to recognize the achievements and contributions of Native Americans throughout history and to promote awareness of their cultures and traditions. 

Native American and Alaska Native history is rich and complex as it spans thousands of years. Starting in the 15th century the arrival of European explorers drastically reshaped Native American societies and their way of life. The Europeans brought diseases that killed more that 90% of the Indigenous population, and engaged in violent conflicts with the Natives. By the 19th century, U.S. expansion led to the forced relocation of Native tribes (exemplified by the Trail of Tears) which resulted in significant loss of life and land. 

Native Alastics has a complex history as well. Historians believe that they migrated to Alaska from Asia over the Bering land Bridge approximately 15,000 to 24,000 years ago. This migration led to the establishment of various cultures that adapted to the harsh Arctic temperature and environment. Over time, these groups developed distinct languages and subsistence practices which relied on hunting, fishing, and gathering. The modern history of these Natives began in the 18th century with the arrival of Russian explorers, who first sighted Alaska in 1741. The Russians established trade relationships with the Natives and founded settlements which led to violent conflicts as well as the introduction of diseases that destroyed populations.

Native Americans are responsible for many inventions and innovations that enabled them to survive and flourish wherever they lived. Here is a list of inventions that are commonly used today. 

• Baby Bottles

• Corn

• Rubber

• Kayaks

• Syringes

• Birth Control

• Hammocks

• Aspirin

• Tobacco

These contributions led to the foundation of American society in which all citizens know and use in their daily lives

Native American Heritage Month reminds citizens that the history, resilience and the creativity of Native Americans and Alaskan Natives continue to shape the nation today. By allowing for a month of celebration and the acknowledgement of successes by these two groups allows for all Americans to appreciate its rich history.