Alfonso Ortiz facts for kids
Alfonso Alex Ortiz (born April 30, 1939, in Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo, New Mexico – died January 26, 1997) was a Native American cultural anthropologist. A cultural anthropologist studies human societies and cultures, looking at how people live, their traditions, and their beliefs. Ortiz was a member of the Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo and dedicated his life to understanding and sharing the rich cultures of Native American peoples.
His Life and Education
Alfonso Ortiz was a very smart student. He graduated from the University of New Mexico in 1961. Later, he earned both his master's degree and his Ph.D. (a very high degree) in anthropology from the University of Chicago.
After finishing his studies, Ortiz became a professor. He taught at several well-known universities. These included the University of California at Los Angeles, Colorado College, Pitzer College, Princeton University, and the University of New Mexico. He shared his knowledge with many students.
He also served as the president of the Association on American Indian Affairs. This organization works to protect the rights and improve the lives of Native American communities. His research notes and recordings of oral histories from his home, San Juan Pueblo, are kept at Princeton University.
His Legacy
Alfonso Ortiz left a lasting impact. In 1999, the National Endowment for the Humanities provided money to the University of New Mexico. This grant helped create the Alfonso Ortiz Center for Intercultural Studies. This center continues his work by promoting understanding between different cultures.
Important Awards
Alfonso Ortiz received several important awards for his work:
- In 1975, he was given a Guggenheim Fellowship. This is a special award given to people who have shown outstanding ability in their field.
- In 1982, he became a MacArthur Fellow. This award is often called a "genius grant." It recognizes people who show exceptional creativity and potential for future achievements.
His Books and Writings
Alfonso Ortiz wrote and edited many important books about Native American cultures. These books helped many people learn about the traditions and stories of Indigenous peoples.
Some of his notable works include:
- New Perspectives on the Pueblos, published by University of New Mexico Press, 1972
- Handbook of North American Indians (volumes 9 and 10), published by the Smithsonian Institution, 1979 and 1983
- To Carry Forth the Vine: an Anthology of Traditional Native North American Poetry.
- American Indian myths and legends (edited with Richard Erdoes), Pantheon Books, 1984, ISBN: 978-0-394-50796-5
