A powwow is a gathering that features dances held by many Native American and First Nations communities. Today, these events serve as opportunities for Indigenous people to socialize, dance, sing, and honor their cultures, and they can range from single-day events to week-long gatherings. Dancing events can also be competitive, offering monetary prizes.

What is the primary purpose of modern powwows?

Modern powwows primarily serve as opportunities for Indigenous people to socialize, dance, sing, and honor their cultures. These gatherings can be either private or public, held indoors or outdoors, and often include competitive dancing with monetary prizes.

How has the term 'powwow' been used in mainstream American culture, and why is this usage sometimes considered offensive?

In mainstream American culture, particularly in 20th-century Western movies or by military personnel, the term 'powwow' was often used to refer to any type of meeting. This usage is now considered by some Native Americans to be an offensive instance of cultural appropriation due to the deep cultural significance that powwows hold for Indigenous communities.

What is the etymological origin of the word 'powwow'?

The word 'powwow' originates from the Narragansett word 'powwaw,' which translates to 'spiritual leader.' The term also has several historical variants, including Powaw, Pawaw, Powah, Pauwau, and Pawau.

During what historical period and in which region did public dances resembling modern powwows become most common?

Public dances that most closely resemble what are now known as powwows were most common in the Great Plains region of the United States during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. This era was marked by the U.S. government's efforts to acquire Native land for economic exploitation, which led to the destruction of many Native communities.

How did U.S. government legislation, specifically related to Circular 1665, impact traditional Native American dance practices?

In 1923, Charles H. Burke, the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, enacted legislation modeled on Circular 1665. This law restricted the times of year when Native Americans could practice traditional dances, which Burke deemed a direct threat to the Christian religion. Despite these restrictions, many Native communities continued their cultural practices in secret.

When did powwows begin to be held in the Great Lakes region?

By the mid-twentieth century, powwows were also being held in the Great Lakes region, indicating a spread of the practice beyond its initial prevalence in the Great Plains.

How far in advance is planning for a powwow typically initiated?

Planning for a powwow generally begins months, and sometimes even a year, before the event takes place. This extensive planning is usually undertaken by a group of individuals referred to as a powwow committee.

What types of organizations commonly sponsor powwows?

Powwows can be sponsored by various entities, including tribal organizations, Native American communities within urban areas, Native American Studies programs at colleges or universities, Native American clubs on campuses, or any other organization capable of providing startup funds, insurance, and volunteer workers.

What are the key responsibilities of a powwow committee?

A powwow committee is responsible for all the planning leading up to the event. Their duties include recruiting and hiring the head staff, publicizing the powwow, securing a suitable location, and recruiting vendors who pay for the opportunity to sell food or merchandise.

Why is the quality of the head staff considered important for a powwow?

The head staff are the individuals who manage the powwow event during its duration. They are typically hired several months in advance, as the perceived quality of the head staff can significantly influence attendance numbers.

What is the role of the Master of Ceremonies (MC) at a powwow?

The Master of Ceremonies (MC) serves as the primary voice of the powwow, responsible for keeping singers, dancers, and the public informed about ongoing activities. The MC sets the schedule of events, manages the 'drum rotation' (the order in which drum groups perform), fills any dead air time, often with jokes, and may run raffles or other contests.

How does the MC maintain the flow and schedule of a powwow?

The Master of Ceremonies (MC) sets the schedule of events and maintains the 'drum rotation,' which dictates the order in which each drum group gets to sing. They are also responsible for filling any pauses in the program, often with humor, and may oversee contests or raffles.

Who typically comprises the Head Dancers, and what is their role in opening the powwow?

The Head Dancers usually include a Head Man Dancer and a Head Woman Dancer, often accompanied by Head Teen Dancers, Head Little Boy and Girl Dancers, Head Golden Age Dancers, and potentially a Head Gourd Dancer. They have the honor of leading the other dancers in the 'grand entry,' which is the parade of dancers that officially opens the powwow.

What is the function of Host Drums at a powwow?

Host drums are responsible for leading songs at the beginning and end of each powwow session. This includes performing the grand entry song, flag song, veterans or victory song, and concluding songs like the flag song, retreat song, and closing song. They may also perform special songs throughout the event.

What is the purpose of the 'dance arena' in a powwow setup?

The dance arena is the central circle within the powwow's layout where the dancing performances take place. It is surrounded by areas for participants, spectators, and vendors.

What types of goods are typically available for purchase at vendor booths at a powwow?

Vendor booths at a powwow typically offer a variety of items, including food, music, jewelry, souvenirs, arts and crafts, beadwork, leather goods, and supplies for making regalia.

Why is it important to protect drums from temperature changes and rain at outdoor powwows?

Drums used by drum groups are sensitive to temperature changes and can be damaged by moisture. Protecting them from rain is crucial, especially at outdoor powwows, as they cannot get wet. Tents or shelters are often used to provide this protection.

What are some key aspects of powwow etiquette regarding photography and attire?

Powwow etiquette includes guidelines for acceptable behavior, such as rules for photography and respecting participants' attire, which should be referred to as 'regalia' and not 'costumes.' It is important to always ask for permission before taking photos or videos of individuals and their regalia.

What is considered disrespectful behavior concerning drums and regalia at a powwow?

It is considered disrespectful to touch or play the drums unless one is part of the drum group. Similarly, individuals should not touch others or their regalia without explicit permission. The clothing worn by participants is called 'regalia,' not 'costume.'

Are there specific tribal prohibitions regarding photography at ceremonies?

Yes, certain tribes, such as the Pascua Yaqui and Hopi, prohibit photography and sketching during their ceremonies, emphasizing the need to be aware of and respect these specific cultural protocols.

What marks the beginning of a powwow session?

A powwow session officially begins with the Grand Entry, preceded by a prayer. The Grand Entry is a procession led by the Eagle Staff, followed by flags and then the dancers, accompanied by an opening song performed by one of the host drums.

Who typically leads the Grand Entry procession, and what is its significance?

The Eagle Staff traditionally leads the Grand Entry procession, symbolizing respect and honor. It is followed by flags and then the dancers, signifying the formal commencement of the powwow's activities.

What role do military veterans often play during the Grand Entry?

Military veterans, whether active duty or retired, are often given the honor of carrying the flags and eagle staffs during the Grand Entry procession, recognizing their service.

In what order do dancers typically enter the arena during the Grand Entry?

After the veterans carrying flags and staffs, the head dancers lead the procession. The remaining dancers typically enter the arena in a specific sequence: Men's Traditional, Men's Grass Dance, Men's Fancy, Women's Traditional, Women's Jingle, and Women's Fancy. This order is then followed by teens and small children in the same categories.

What songs are performed after the invocation and the placement of flags and staffs during the opening ceremony?

Following the invocation and the placement of the flags and staffs at the MC's table, the host drum that did not perform the Grand Entry song will perform a Flag Song. This is typically followed by a Victory or Veterans' Song.

What is an 'intertribal' dance, and how does it differ from other dances at a powwow?

An 'intertribal' dance is a type of dance where a drum group sings a song, and anyone who wishes to participate is welcome to come and dance. This contrasts with contest dances, which are specific to certain styles and age groups and require dancers to compete for prizes.

What are some common open dances mentioned in the text, besides intertribal dances?

Besides intertribal dances, other common open dances include the round dance, crow hop (when performed by a northern drum), horse stealing song (by a southern drum), 'double beat,' and 'sneakup.' For women's traditional and jingle dances, the 'sidestep' is also mentioned. Each of these songs typically has a distinct step, but they are open to dancers of any style.

What is the purpose of contest dances at a powwow?

Contest dances are held for specific dance styles and age groups, with the top winners receiving cash prizes. To participate in a contest, a dancer must wear regalia appropriate for the specific competition category.

Describe the Men's Fancy Dance and its distinctive regalia.

The Men's Fancy Dance, also known as the Fancy Feather Dance, is characterized by vivid regalia and dynamic movements, including spins and leaps. Dancers are distinguished by their brightly colored outfits, which feature two large bustles worn on the upper and lower back.

What are the characteristics of the Northern Traditional dance and its regalia?

The Northern Traditional dance, often simply called 'Men's Traditional' in the North, features traditional regalia that includes a single bustle (usually made of eagle feathers), a ribbon shirt, a bone hair pipe choker, and a breastplate. The dance movements are often based on storytelling traditions, such as a warrior scouting before battle, and dancers may carry a dance staff and an eagle feather fan.

How does the Straight Dance (Southern Traditional) differ in its footwork and rhythm adaptation?

Straight dancers, also known as Southern Traditional dancers, typically wear neat regalia with handmade features like chokers and breastplates. Their dance steps are similar to Northern styles, involving stepping on the ball of the foot and tapping it once or twice. If a dancer falls off-beat, they tap their foot three times to re-sync with the drum's rhythm, a technique that requires significant skill, especially with fast drums.

What visual elements define the Grass Dance regalia and movements?

The Grass Dance features regalia adorned with long, flowing fringe and designs that evoke the appearance of grass swaying in the wind. The dance movements are more elaborate than those in traditional dances but less flashy than the fancy dancers' movements.

What inspired the movements of the Chicken Dance, and what does its regalia typically include?

The Chicken Dance movements are inspired by the mating dance of the prairie chicken, with dancers imitating the bird by rocking their heads and spinning. The regalia is generally less elaborate than other dances, often including a porcupine hair roach, two long pheasant tail feathers, snug shirts and leggings, a small bustle, and dancers may carry a mirror board or gourd and an eagle tail feather fan.

What distinguishes the Eastern War Dance from other men's dances?

The Eastern War Dance, originating from the East Coast, is a storytelling dance. Unlike some other men's dances, the dancers do not wear a bustle, but they do carry a fan and a dance stick. It is also referred to as the 'Eastern Strait Dance.'

Describe the Women's Traditional dance and its regalia.

The Women's Traditional dance, commonly seen at Northern powwows, features regalia made of cloth or leather. The dance movements are precise and highly controlled, reflecting a deep connection to tradition.

What is the significance of the name 'Buckskin and Cloth' for a women's dance category?

The 'Buckskin and Cloth' dance is a traditional dance from the South, named after the primary materials used for the dress. While the regalia is similar to the Northern traditional dance, dancers in the South are judged in two separate categories based on whether they wear buckskin or cloth, though the dance steps remain the same for both.

How is the Fancy Shawl dance characterized by its regalia and movements?

The Fancy Shawl dance is characterized by women wearing brilliantly colored regalia, including a long, often fringed and decorated shawl. The dance involves rapid spins and elaborate steps, showcasing agility and grace.

What is unique about the Jingle Dress dance, particularly its sound?

The Jingle Dress dance is distinct due to the hundreds of small tin cones attached to the dancer's skirt. As the dancer moves with light footwork close to the ground, these cones create a characteristic jingling sound, often associated with healing.

What are some examples of couples and group dances mentioned at powwows?

Examples of couples dances include the 'two step,' where couples follow the lead dancers, and the 'owl dance,' where each couple dances independently. Group dances mentioned are the 'Snake and Buffalo' dance, where the group mimics snake and buffalo movements.

What is the Gourd Dance, where did it originate, and when is it typically performed?

The Gourd Dance is a society dance for veterans and their families, originating with the Kiowa tribe and spreading from there. It is often included at powwows with a significant Southern Plains community presence, typically performed before the main powwow sessions begin, with the drum positioned in the center of the dance arena.

What is the fundamental importance of drums and songs to a powwow?

Drums and songs are considered essential to a powwow, as stated by the quote, 'Good drums get the dancers out there, good songs get them to dance well. Without drum groups, there is no music. No music, no dance, no powwow.' They provide the rhythm and melody that drive the dancing and the overall event.

What is a 'host drum,' and what level of respect does it receive?

A 'host drum' is a specific drum group accorded great respect at a powwow. They are responsible for leading key songs at the beginning and end of sessions, such as the grand entry song, flag songs, and closing songs.

How are drum groups typically formed and named?

Members of drum groups are often related as family, extended family, or friends. The groups themselves are frequently named after families, geographic locations, tribal societies, or sometimes adopt more colorful or distinctive names.

How has the role of women in drumming and singing evolved since the mid-1970s?

Traditionally, only men would drum, with women sitting behind them singing high harmonies. Beginning in the mid-1970s, women started drumming alongside men and also began 'seconding,' which involves singing the song an octave higher. Today, mixed-gender and all-female drum groups are common.

What essential supplies does a drum group typically carry?

A drum group's essential supplies include the drum itself (traditionally rawhide-headed), a cloth bag for padded drumsticks, a drum stand, folding chairs for sitting, and sometimes a public address system for amplification.

How are drum group equipment, such as drums and stands, often decorated?

The drum head, stand, microphone stands, and PA box used by drum groups are often adorned with decorative elements. These can include paintings, eagle feathers, fur, flags, and strips of colored cloth, adding visual artistry to their equipment.

What are 'hard beats' in powwow music, and how are they used?

'Hard beats' are pronounced strikes in powwow music used to signify specific sections of a song. The 'traditional method' involves a strike by all singers every other beat, often occurring at the beginning or end of a song section. A cluster of three hard beats can mark the end of a series of hard beats, and a few beats in the first line can indicate performer enthusiasm.

Describe the typical song structure of a powwow song.

A typical powwow song structure consists of four 'pushups,' meaning the chorus and verse are sung through four times. Each chorus is led by a lead singer and then 'seconded' by another singer who begins to vary the melody. The entire chorus joins in for the remainder of the pushup. Three 'down strokes' or 'hard beats' mark the transition from the chorus to the verse.

How do lead singers and second singers contribute to a song's chorus and verse?

In each chorus of a powwow song, the lead singer introduces the melody. Before the lead singer finishes their line, a second singer begins to join in, and then the entire chorus follows for the rest of the pushup. This interplay creates the layered vocal texture characteristic of powwow music.

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What is a Powwow?

A Gathering of Communities

A powwow is a vibrant gathering characterized by dances held by numerous Native American and First Nations communities. These events serve as crucial opportunities for Indigenous peoples to socialize, engage in traditional dances and songs, and collectively honor their rich cultural heritage.

Scope and Duration

Powwows can range from intimate, private affairs to large public celebrations, held either indoors or outdoors. Their duration varies significantly, from single-day events to week-long festivities, accommodating diverse community needs and traditions.

Competitive Elements

Many contemporary powwows feature competitive dancing, offering monetary prizes to participants. This aspect adds an element of performance and skill recognition, encouraging excellence in traditional dance forms.

Terminology and Appropriation

Historically, the term "powwow" was broadly used in mainstream American culture, particularly in 20th-century media, to refer to any meeting. However, due to the profound cultural and spiritual significance powwows hold for Indigenous peoples, this generalized usage is now considered by many Native Americans to be an offensive act of cultural appropriation.

Historical Roots

Etymological Origins

The term "powwow" originates from the Narragansett word powwaw, meaning "spiritual leader." Variations such as Powaw, Pawaw, Powah, Pauwau, and Pawau also exist. While numerous nations claim to have hosted the "first" powwow, the practice evolved significantly over time.

Emergence and Restrictions

Public dances resembling modern powwows became most prevalent in the Great Plains region during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This era coincided with U.S. government policies aimed at dismantling Native communities. In 1923, U.S. Commissioner of Indian Affairs Charles H. Burke enacted legislation restricting the times when traditional dances could be practiced, deeming them a threat to the Christian religion. Despite these restrictions, many communities continued their traditions in secret.

Mid-Century Expansion

By the mid-20th century, powwows began to gain prominence in the Great Lakes region as well, reflecting the resilience and adaptability of Indigenous cultural practices in the face of external pressures.

Planning the Gathering

The Powwow Committee

The meticulous planning for a powwow typically commences months, or even a year, in advance. A dedicated powwow committee, usually comprising members from sponsoring organizations such as tribal councils, urban Native American communities, or university clubs, oversees all aspects of the event.

Sponsorship and Logistics

Sponsorship is vital, providing essential startup funds, insurance, and volunteer personnel. The committee's responsibilities include securing a suitable venue, publicizing the event, and recruiting vendors who pay for the privilege of selling food, merchandise, and crafts at the powwow.

Key Personnel

Master of Ceremonies (MC)

The MC serves as the voice and orchestrator of the powwow. Their role involves keeping participants and attendees informed about the schedule, managing the drum rotation (the order in which drum groups perform), and filling any lulls in the program, often with humor or announcements.

Head Dancers

Comprising Head Man Dancer, Head Woman Dancer, and often youth and elder categories, the head dancers hold significant honor. They lead the Grand Entry, initiating the procession of dancers, and frequently lead the dancers during specific songs, setting a standard for participation.

Host Drums

Host drum groups are highly respected entities responsible for performing key songs, including the Grand Entry song, flag songs, veterans' songs, and closing songs. Their performance sets the rhythm and energy for the powwow sessions. Famous host drums include Black Lodge Singers, Cozad Singers, and Yellowhammer.

The Powwow Arena

Spatial Organization

Powwows are typically arranged in concentric circles. The innermost circle is the dance arena. Surrounding this is an area for the MC's table, drum groups, and seating for dancers and their families. Spectators occupy a larger outer circle, with vendor booths situated furthest from the arena.

Weather Considerations

Outdoor powwows often feature an arbor or tent structure to provide shelter for the arena and participants. Protecting the drums from rain and extreme temperatures is particularly crucial, as they are sensitive instruments integral to the music and dance.

Cultural Protocols

Respectful Observation

Guidelines govern behavior, particularly regarding photography and respecting ceremonies. While some powwows permit filming during certain segments, others strictly prohibit it, especially during sacred moments like the Grand Entry or prayer. It is essential to ask permission before photographing individuals or their regalia.

Regalia and Attire

The clothing worn by participants is referred to as "regalia," reflecting its cultural and often spiritual significance, and should never be mistaken for a mere "costume."

Drum Protocol

Drums are considered sacred and are treated with deep respect. Uninvited touching or playing of drums is prohibited. In some regions, leaving a drum unattended is considered disrespectful. Gifts, such as tobacco, are often offered to drum groups during giveaways as a sign of appreciation.

Prohibitions

Certain tribes, including the Pascua Yaqui and Hopi, may prohibit photography and sketching during specific ceremonies. Adhering to these protocols demonstrates respect for tribal customs and traditions.

The Grand Entry

Ceremonial Commencement

A powwow session commences with the Grand Entry, a solemn procession led by the Eagle Staff, followed by flags and then the dancers, accompanied by an opening song from a host drum. This event is often considered sacred, with varying rules regarding photography.

Honoring Veterans

Military veterans and active service members are frequently honored during the Grand Entry, often carrying the flags and Eagle Staffs. This is followed by the entrance of the head dancers and then the various categories of dancers, maintaining a specific order.

Invocation and Songs

Following the Grand Entry, a respected community member delivers an invocation. Subsequently, flag songs and victory or veterans' songs are performed, during which the flags and staffs are formally placed.

The Art of Dance

Intertribal and Open Dances

Many dances are open to all participants, fostering a sense of unity. These include the intertribal dance, where anyone can join the arena during a song. Other open dances like the round dance, crow hop, horse stealing song, double beat, sneakup, and sidestep follow specific rhythms and steps but are accessible to all dancers.

Contest Dances

Larger powwows feature contest dances for specific styles and age groups, offering cash prizes. Dancers must wear appropriate regalia for their category. Dance categories can vary regionally but generally include distinct styles for men and women.

Men's Styles:

Fancy Dance (Northern & Southern): Characterized by vibrant regalia, including two large bustles, and dynamic movements like spins and leaps.
Northern Traditional: Employs traditional regalia with a single bustle, often featuring storytelling movements inspired by warrior scouting or historical narratives. Dancers carry a staff and fan.
Straight Dance (Southern Traditional): Features precise footwork and neat regalia, often with handmade elements. The dance involves tapping the foot on the ball and then the heel, maintaining rhythm with the drum.
Grass Dance: Regalia includes long, flowing fringe resembling grass. Movements are elaborate, blending traditional and flashy elements.
Chicken Dance: A more recent style imitating the prairie chicken's mating dance with rocking head movements and side spins. Regalia is less elaborate, featuring specific feather arrangements and accessories like a mirror board or gourd.
Eastern War Dance: A storytelling dance from the East Coast, performed without a bustle but with a fan and dance stick.

Women's Styles:

Traditional (Northern): Features traditional regalia made of cloth or leather, with precise, controlled movements.
Buckskin and Cloth (Southern): Similar to Northern Traditional but judged in separate categories based on dress material. Dance steps are consistent.
Fancy Shawl: Dancers wear brightly colored shawls and perform rapid spins and intricate steps.
Jingle Dress (Healing Dance): Distinguished by hundreds of small tin cones on the skirt that create a distinct sound with the dancer's light, close-to-the-ground footwork.

Group and Couples Dances

Beyond individual styles, powwows include dances for couples, such as the two-step and owl dance, where couples follow the head dancers or dance independently. Group dances, like the Snake and Buffalo dance, involve choreographed movements mimicking animal actions.

Gourd Dance

Often featured before powwow sessions, especially where Southern Plains communities are present, the Gourd Dance originated with the Kiowa tribe. It is a society dance primarily for veterans and their families, typically performed with the drum positioned in the center of the arena.

The Sound of the Powwow

The Central Drum

Music is fundamental, with drumming being paramount. Drum groups, often composed of family or friends, are central to the powwow's performance. While traditionally male-dominated, women now participate actively in drumming and singing. The drum itself is revered, with specific protocols for its use and offerings made during giveaways.

Singing Traditions

Singing typically follows a structure of four "pushups" (chorus-verse repetitions). Lead singers initiate melodies, often using vocables (syllabic sounds like "ya," "hey") rather than full lyrics, especially in intertribal songs. Regional variations exist, with Northern styles often employing a high falsetto and Southern styles using a lower range. The music generally adheres to a pentatonic scale.

Drum Etiquette:

Drums are considered sacred and must be treated with respect.
Leaving a drum unattended is often considered disrespectful.
Females may be welcomed to sing harmonies behind male drummers in some groups, reflecting diverse tribal interpretations of drumming history.
Gifts of tobacco are customary during giveaways to acknowledge the musicians.
Dancers may signal a request for a specific song, even outside the regular rotation, by approaching the drum and using gestures.

Song Structure and Performance

Songs feature distinct sections marked by "hard beats." The structure involves a lead singer introducing the melody, followed by the entire chorus. Tempo and volume often increase towards the end of verses. A "tail" or coda concludes the song. Dancers respond dynamically to melodic changes and rhythmic cues, interpreting the music through their movements.

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References

Hatton, O. Thomas (1974). "Performance Practices of Northern Plains Pow-Wow Singing Groups", Anuario Interamericano de Investigacion Musical, Vol. 10, pp. 129.

Hatton, O. Thomas (1974). "Performance Practices of Northern Plains Pow-Wow Singing Groups", p.85-86, Anuario Interamericano de Investigacion Musical, Vol. 10, pp. 123-137.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Powwow Wikipedia page

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Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice

This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, synthesizing information from publicly available sources, primarily Wikipedia. It is intended for academic and educational purposes, providing a structured overview of the Powwow tradition.

This is not a substitute for primary source research or direct engagement with Indigenous communities. The information presented is based on data available at the time of generation and may not encompass the full breadth or nuance of Powwow practices, which vary significantly across different nations and regions. Users are encouraged to consult original sources and engage respectfully with cultural knowledge holders for a comprehensive understanding.

The creators assume no responsibility for errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided. Cultural interpretations and practices are dynamic and should be approached with sensitivity and respect.

The Rhythmic Heartbeat

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What is a Powwow? ℹ️

🤝 A Gathering of Communities

🗓️ Scope and Duration

🏆 Competitive Elements

⚠️ Terminology and Appropriation

Historical Roots 📜

🗣️ Etymological Origins

🏞️ Emergence and Restrictions

🌍 Mid-Century Expansion

Planning the Gathering ⚙️

📅 The Powwow Committee

💰 Sponsorship and Logistics

Key Personnel 🧑‍💼

🎤 Master of Ceremonies (MC)

👑 Head Dancers

🎶 Host Drums

The Powwow Arena 🏟️

⭕ Spatial Organization

☂️ Weather Considerations

Cultural Protocols ⚖️

📸 Respectful Observation

👘 Regalia and Attire

🥁 Drum Protocol

🚫 Prohibitions

The Grand Entry 🏁

✨ Ceremonial Commencement

🎖️ Honoring Veterans

🙏 Invocation and Songs

The Art of Dance 💃

🌐 Intertribal and Open Dances

🏅 Contest Dances

Men's Styles:

Women's Styles:

👥 Group and Couples Dances

🌿 Gourd Dance

The Sound of the Powwow 🎵

🥁 The Central Drum

🎤 Singing Traditions

Drum Etiquette:

🎶 Song Structure and Performance

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

What is a Powwow?

A Gathering of Communities

Scope and Duration

Competitive Elements

Terminology and Appropriation

Historical Roots

Etymological Origins

Emergence and Restrictions

Mid-Century Expansion

Planning the Gathering

The Powwow Committee

Sponsorship and Logistics

Key Personnel

Master of Ceremonies (MC)

Head Dancers

Host Drums

The Powwow Arena

Spatial Organization

Weather Considerations

Cultural Protocols

Respectful Observation

Regalia and Attire

Drum Protocol

Prohibitions

The Grand Entry

Ceremonial Commencement

Honoring Veterans

Invocation and Songs

The Art of Dance

Intertribal and Open Dances

Contest Dances

Group and Couples Dances

Gourd Dance

The Sound of the Powwow

The Central Drum

Singing Traditions

Song Structure and Performance

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice