Chihuahua tradition facts for kids
The Chihuahua (Southeastern) tradition was an ancient way of life in parts of what is now New Mexico and the Mexican state of Chihuahua. This culture existed for a very long time, from about 6000 BC to AD 250. That's over 6,000 years ago!
Scientists are still learning a lot about these early people. It's thought that this tradition wasn't just one single group, but probably included several different local groups. These groups adapted to their environments over many centuries.
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What Was the Chihuahua Tradition?
The Chihuahua (Southeastern) tradition describes a period when people lived as hunter-gatherers. This means they moved around to find food. They hunted animals and gathered wild plants. This way of life was common before people started farming.
Where Did They Live?
These ancient people lived in the south-central part of New Mexico and across the border into the state of Chihuahua in Mexico. This area is known for its deserts and mountains. People had to be very clever to find food and water.
When Did This Tradition Happen?
The Chihuahua tradition lasted for a very long time. It began around 6000 BC. To give you an idea, that's about 8,000 years ago! It continued until about AD 250. This long period shows how successful these groups were at living in their environment.
Life in the Archaic Southwest
The Chihuahua (Southeastern) tradition is part of a bigger picture called the Southwestern Archaic tradition. The "Archaic" period in North America was a time when people lived by hunting and gathering. They used tools made from stone, bone, and wood.
Different Ways of Life
One idea, from a scientist named Irwin-Williams, suggests there were four main "Archaic traditions" in the Southwest. These traditions were different from others, like the Plains Archaic, which was found in the central parts of North America. Each tradition had its own unique ways of living and using tools.
How Do We Learn About Them?
Because these people lived so long ago, we don't have written records. Instead, archaeologists study the things they left behind. These include stone tools, ancient campsites, and sometimes even old plant remains. By studying these clues, scientists can piece together what life was like for the people of the Chihuahua (Southeastern) tradition.
