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Kaw people Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge

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Study Guide: The Kaw Nation: History, Identity, and Resilience

Cheat Sheet:
The Kaw Nation: History, Identity, and Resilience Study Guide

Origins, Identity, and Early History

The Kaw Nation is historically identified by several names, including "Quans," and is often described as the "People of Water."

Answer: True

Explanation: The Kaw Nation is known by various names such as Kanza, Kaza, and Quans, and is frequently referred to as the "People of Water" or "People of the South Wind."

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The Kansa language, spoken by the Kaw people, belongs to the Iroquoian language family.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Kansa language spoken by the Kaw people belongs to the Siouan language family, specifically the Dhegiha branch, not the Iroquoian family.

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The Kaw people are linguistically and culturally distinct from the Osage Nation, with no historical intermarriage between the groups.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Kaw people are closely related linguistically and culturally to the Osage Nation, and historical intermarriage between members of these tribes was common.

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The Kaw people belong to the Dhegiha branch of the Siouan language family.

Answer: True

Explanation: Linguistically, the Kaw people are classified as belonging to the Dhegiha branch of the Siouan language family.

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Oral tradition suggests the ancestors of the Kaw migrated westward from the Great Plains towards the Ohio River Valley.

Answer: False

Explanation: Oral tradition indicates that the ancestors of the Kaw migrated westward from the east, possibly originating near the Ohio River Valley, not westward from the Great Plains.

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The French explorer Bourgmont was the first European to document a visit to the Kaw people in 1724.

Answer: True

Explanation: Historical records indicate that the French explorer Bourgmont was the first European to document an encounter with the Kaw people in the year 1724.

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Historically, the Kaw people relied exclusively on hunting bison and did not practice agriculture.

Answer: False

Explanation: Historically, the Kaw people engaged in both hunting, particularly bison, and practiced agriculture as key components of their subsistence strategy.

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What is the Kaw Nation also known as, and what does their name signify?

Answer: Kanza / Kasa, signifying "People of the South Wind" and "People of Water"

Explanation: The Kaw Nation is known by various names, including Kanza and Kasa, which translate to "People of the South Wind" and "People of Water," respectively.

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The Kansa language spoken by the Kaw people is classified linguistically as belonging to which family?

Answer: Siouan

Explanation: The Kansa language is classified as a member of the Siouan language family.

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Which Native American tribe shares a close historical and familial relationship with the Kaw Nation, evidenced by frequent intermarriage?

Answer: The Osage Nation

Explanation: The Osage Nation is closely related to the Kaw Nation, both linguistically and culturally, with a history of intermarriage between their members.

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The Kaw people belong to which specific branch of the Siouan language family?

Answer: The Dhegiha branch

Explanation: The Kaw language is classified within the Dhegiha branch of the Siouan language family.

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According to oral tradition, which direction did the ancestors of the Dhegiha tribes, including the Kaw, primarily migrate?

Answer: Westward, from the east

Explanation: Oral traditions suggest a westward migration originating from the eastern part of North America for the Dhegiha peoples.

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Who was the first European explorer to document a visit to the Kaw people?

Answer: Bourgmont

Explanation: The French explorer Bourgmont is credited as the first European to formally document a visit to the Kaw people in 1724.

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Historically, what were the primary subsistence activities of the Kaw people?

Answer: Hunting bison and practicing agriculture

Explanation: The Kaw historically sustained themselves through a combination of bison hunting and agricultural cultivation.

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Displacement and Land Loss

The U.S. state of Kansas and its capital city, Topeka, derive their names from the Kaw tribe.

Answer: True

Explanation: The state of Kansas and its capital, Topeka, are named in honor of the Kaw tribe, reflecting their historical presence and influence in the region.

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Relocating their primary village to the Kansas River valley in the late 18th/early 19th century brought the Kaw closer to potential rivals such as the Pawnee.

Answer: True

Explanation: The move to the Kansas River valley facilitated access to bison herds but also placed the Kaw geographically closer to rival tribes, including the Pawnee.

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Around the time of the Lewis and Clark expedition, the total Kaw population was estimated to be approximately 300 individuals.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Kaw population around the time of the Lewis and Clark expedition (circa 1804) was estimated at approximately 300 men, suggesting a total population closer to 1,500 individuals.

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The U.S. acquisition of the Louisiana Territory in 1803 resulted in diminished pressure on the Kaw people due to the securing of their lands.

Answer: False

Explanation: The acquisition of the Louisiana Territory intensified pressure on the Kaw people, leading to increased confinement and encroachment on their lands by westward-migrating settlers and tribes.

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In the 1825 land cession agreement, the Kaw received a substantial and timely payment directly from the U.S. government.

Answer: False

Explanation: The payments promised to the Kaw for the 1825 land cession were frequently delayed or improperly distributed, often benefiting officials and merchants rather than the tribe.

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The Kaw reservation near Council Grove, Kansas, was largely free from external disturbances due to its remote location.

Answer: False

Explanation: The reservation near Council Grove experienced significant disturbances, including conflicts with travelers on the Santa Fe Trail, encroachment by settlers, and a flourishing whiskey trade.

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During the American Civil War, many Kaw men joined the 9th Kansas Cavalry Regiment, serving as soldiers and scouts.

Answer: True

Explanation: A notable contingent of Kaw men served during the Civil War as soldiers and scouts within the 9th Kansas Cavalry Regiment.

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The Kaw people were forced to leave Kansas and relocated to Indian Territory on June 4, 1873.

Answer: True

Explanation: This date marks the forced removal of the Kaw people from their ancestral lands in Kansas to Indian Territory.

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The Curtis Act of 1898 abolished the Kaw tribal government and led to the division of tribal lands among members.

Answer: True

Explanation: This federal legislation significantly altered the Kaw's political structure and land ownership patterns.

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Which U.S. state and its capital city are named in honor of the Kaw tribe?

Answer: Kansas and Topeka

Explanation: The state of Kansas and its capital, Topeka, derive their names from the Kaw tribe, reflecting their historical significance in the region.

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How did the Kaw's move to the Kansas River valley in the late 18th/early 19th century affect their relationship with bison herds?

Answer: It allowed them to be closer to the bison herds they hunted annually.

Explanation: This strategic move brought the Kaw into closer proximity to the annual bison hunting grounds.

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What was the estimated total population of the Kaw people around the time of the Lewis and Clark expedition (1804)?

Answer: Approximately 1,500 individuals

Explanation: Estimates place the Kaw population at approximately 1,500 individuals during the early 19th century.

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Which of the following was a negative consequence for the Kaw people following the U.S. acquisition of the Louisiana Territory?

Answer: Increased confinement and encroachment on their lands.

Explanation: The territorial expansion led to increased pressure, confinement, and encroachment upon Kaw lands.

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What was a major problem associated with the compensation promised to the Kaw for their 1825 land cession?

Answer: The payment was often delayed or improperly distributed, benefiting officials and merchants.

Explanation: The promised annuities were frequently subject to delays and misappropriation, diminishing their value to the Kaw people.

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Which of the following was a significant challenge for the Kaw on their reservation near Council Grove, Kansas?

Answer: Constant conflicts with travelers on the Santa Fe Trail and encroachment by settlers.

Explanation: The reservation's location exposed the Kaw to frequent conflicts with travelers and settlers, undermining their stability.

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During the American Civil War, what role did many Kaw men play?

Answer: They served as soldiers and scouts in the 9th Kansas Cavalry Regiment.

Explanation: Many Kaw men contributed to the Union cause by serving as soldiers and scouts in the 9th Kansas Cavalry Regiment.

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On what date were the Kaw people pressured to leave Kansas and relocate to Indian Territory?

Answer: June 4, 1873

Explanation: June 4, 1873, marks the date of the forced removal of the Kaw from Kansas.

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What was a major consequence of the Curtis Act of 1898 for the Kaw Nation?

Answer: It led to the abolition of the tribal government and the division of lands.

Explanation: The Curtis Act fundamentally altered the Kaw Nation by dismantling their tribal government and allotting their lands.

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Challenges and Adaptation in Oklahoma

Smallpox epidemics during the periods of 1827-1828 and 1831-1832 caused the deaths of approximately 500 Kaw people.

Answer: True

Explanation: These devastating smallpox epidemics significantly reduced the Kaw population, resulting in the loss of approximately 500 lives.

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The Kaw tribe divided into four competing groups in the 1830s primarily due to conflicts with the Osage Nation.

Answer: False

Explanation: The division of the Kaw tribe into factions during the 1830s stemmed primarily from internal rivalries and differing approaches to assimilation, rather than direct conflicts with the Osage Nation.

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A devastating flood in 1844 destroyed the Kaw's cultivated land, leading to their destitution.

Answer: True

Explanation: The flood of 1844 had a catastrophic impact on the Kaw, destroying their agricultural base and leaving the tribe in a state of destitution.

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In the 1868 Cheyenne attack on the Kaw reservation, the Cheyenne warriors inflicted significant casualties and captured numerous horses.

Answer: False

Explanation: While an engagement occurred in 1868, the Cheyenne warriors withdrew after a battle, suffering no significant casualties and capturing only a few horses.

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Joseph James Jr., a Kaw interpreter, and Charles Curtis rode to Topeka to seek military aid during the 1868 Cheyenne attack.

Answer: True

Explanation: This urgent mission by Joseph James Jr. and young Charles Curtis was crucial in requesting assistance from the state governor during the Cheyenne attack.

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Between 1873 and 1879 in Oklahoma, the Kaw population declined sharply due to contagious diseases.

Answer: True

Explanation: The post-relocation period in Oklahoma was marked by severe health crises, with contagious diseases significantly impacting the Kaw population.

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In 1884, the Kaw organized their government with a Chief Councilor and representatives from four bands to manage grazing leases.

Answer: True

Explanation: This governmental organization was established to efficiently administer the leasing of tribal lands for grazing purposes.

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What disease caused severe population losses for the Kaw tribe in the periods of 1827-1828 and 1831-1832?

Answer: Smallpox

Explanation: Smallpox epidemics proved devastating to the Kaw population during these specific periods.

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In the 1830s, the Kaw tribe divided into factions primarily due to:

Answer: Differing approaches to assimilation and internal rivalries.

Explanation: Internal dynamics, including differing views on assimilation and inter-band rivalries, led to the fragmentation of the Kaw tribe.

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What natural disaster led to the destitution of the Kaw tribe in 1844?

Answer: A disastrous flood

Explanation: A severe flood in 1844 destroyed the Kaw's agricultural lands, leading to widespread destitution.

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What was the outcome of the 1868 Cheyenne attack on the Kaw reservation?

Answer: The Cheyenne withdrew after a battle, suffering no casualties and taking few horses.

Explanation: The engagement concluded with the Cheyenne forces withdrawing, having sustained minimal losses and capturing only a limited number of horses.

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Who rode to Topeka to request assistance from the Governor during the 1868 Cheyenne attack on the Kaw reservation?

Answer: Joseph James Jr. and Charles Curtis

Explanation: Joseph James Jr., a Kaw interpreter, and a young Charles Curtis rode to Topeka to seek aid during the crisis.

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How did the Kaw primarily derive income during the 1880s and 1890s in Oklahoma?

Answer: From leasing their land to white ranchers for grazing.

Explanation: The leasing of tribal lands for grazing purposes became a principal source of income for the Kaw during this period.

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What was the structure of the Kaw government organized in 1884 to manage land leases?

Answer: A Chief Councilor and a representative from each of the four Kaw bands.

Explanation: This governance structure, featuring a Chief Councilor and band representatives, was established to oversee land lease agreements.

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What serious allegations were made concerning the Indian Health Service and Kaw women in the 1970s?

Answer: Forced sterilization practices.

Explanation: Allegations of forced sterilization practices against Kaw women by the Indian Health Service emerged during the 1970s.

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The Modern Kaw Nation

The current headquarters of the Kaw Nation are located in Kaw City, Kansas.

Answer: False

Explanation: The current headquarters of the Kaw Nation are located in Kaw City, Oklahoma, not Kansas.

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According to the provided data, does over half of the total Kaw Nation population reside within the state of Oklahoma?

Answer: False

Explanation: The provided data indicates a total Kaw Nation population of 3,559 members, with 1,428 residing in Oklahoma, representing approximately 40.1% of the total, not over half.

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The Kaw Nation's annual economic impact is estimated to be around $2 million.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Kaw Nation's estimated annual economic impact is significantly higher, reported at $200 million, not $2 million.

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The Kaw Nation operates the SouthWind Casino and the Kanza Health Clinic among its various services.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Kaw Nation operates numerous enterprises and services, including the SouthWind Casino and the Kanza Health Clinic, contributing to tribal infrastructure and well-being.

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The official newsletter of the Kaw Nation, Kanza News, is published monthly.

Answer: False

Explanation: The official newsletter of the Kaw Nation, Kanza News, is published quarterly, not monthly.

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By 1888, the Kaw numbered only 188 individuals and were considered near extinction, but their numbers began to increase through acculturation and intermarriage.

Answer: True

Explanation: Despite facing near extinction, the Kaw population experienced a gradual recovery driven by assimilation processes and intermarriage.

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By 1945, the majority of the land that constituted the former Kaw Reservation was still owned by Kaw people.

Answer: False

Explanation: By 1945, only approximately 13 percent of the former Kaw Reservation land remained under Kaw ownership, indicating significant land loss post-allotment.

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What is the current location of the Kaw Nation's headquarters?

Answer: Kaw City, Oklahoma

Explanation: The headquarters of the Kaw Nation are presently situated in Kaw City, Oklahoma.

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According to the provided data, what is the approximate total population of the Kaw Nation?

Answer: 3,559

Explanation: The data indicates that the Kaw Nation comprises approximately 3,559 members.

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What is the estimated annual economic impact of the Kaw Nation?

Answer: $200 million

Explanation: The Kaw Nation contributes an estimated $200 million annually to the economy.

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Which of the following is a business or service operated by the Kaw Nation?

Answer: All of the above

Explanation: The Kaw Nation actively operates a diverse range of businesses and services, including the SouthWind Casino, Kanza Health Clinic, and related enterprises.

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What is the name of the Kaw Nation's official newsletter, and how frequently is it published?

Answer: Kanza News, published quarterly

Explanation: The official newsletter, Kanza News, serves as a primary communication channel and is published on a quarterly basis.

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What factors contributed to the slow recovery and increase in Kaw numbers in the early 20th century?

Answer: Acculturation and intermarriage, despite declining full-blood numbers.

Explanation: Processes of acculturation and intermarriage played a significant role in the Kaw population's recovery, even as the number of full-blood members decreased.

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By 1945, what percentage of the land that constituted the former Kaw Reservation was still owned by Kaw people?

Answer: Approximately 13 percent

Explanation: By 1945, Kaw ownership of their former reservation lands had diminished to approximately 13 percent.

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Which historical Kaw sites were impacted by the creation of Kaw Lake and subsequently relocated?

Answer: Their Council House and cemetery at Washunga.

Explanation: The construction of Kaw Lake necessitated the relocation of important sites, including the Kaw Council House and cemetery at Washunga.

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In what year did the Kaw Nation achieve federal recognition and reorganize?

Answer: 1959

Explanation: The Kaw Nation regained federal recognition and reorganized its governance structure in 1959.

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What action did the Kaw Nation take in 2000 to commemorate their history in Kansas?

Answer: They purchased land near Council Grove, Kansas, for a heritage park.

Explanation: In 2000, the Kaw Nation acquired land near Council Grove, Kansas, to establish the Allegawaho Memorial Heritage Park.

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When did the last fluent speaker of the Kansa language pass away?

Answer: 1983

Explanation: The passing of Walter Kekahbah in 1983 marked the end of fluent native speakers of the Kansa language.

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Notable Figures and Cultural Contributions

Who was Lucy Tayiah Eads, known for her leadership role in the 1920s?

Answer: The first and only female chief of the Kaw Nation.

Explanation: Lucy Tayiah Eads holds the distinction of being the first and only female chief of the Kaw Nation.

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Who was Allegawaho?

Answer: A Kaw Chief who served from approximately 1867 to 1873.

Explanation: Allegawaho was a significant Kaw Chief during the latter half of the 19th century.

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What unique political achievement did Charles Curtis accomplish?

Answer: He was the only Native American elected Vice President of the United States.

Explanation: Charles Curtis holds the distinction of being the sole Native American to have been elected Vice President of the United States.

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Who was Washunga?

Answer: The principal chief of the Kaw Nation from 1873 to 1908.

Explanation: Washunga served as the principal chief of the Kaw Nation for an extended period, from 1873 until his death in 1908.

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What artistic tradition is Chris Pappan, a member of the Kaw Nation, known for?

Answer: Ledger art

Explanation: Chris Pappan is a notable practitioner of ledger art, a significant form of Native American artistic expression.

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