Deg Xitʼan facts for kids
Traditional Deg Xit'an clothing in the Field Museum of Natural History
|
|
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| 250 (speakers of language only) | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
 USA ( Alaska) |
|
| Languages | |
| English, Deg Xinag | |
| Religion | |
| Christianity | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Yup'ik, Koyukon, Dena'ina |
The Deg Hitʼan (say "Deg HEE-tan") are a group of Native Alaskan people. They live in the state of Alaska, United States. Their traditional language is called Deg Xinag.
Most Deg Hitʼan people live in villages along rivers. These places include Anvik (on the Anvik River), Shageluk (on the Innoko River), and Holy Cross (on the lower Yukon River).
The Deg Hitʼan are officially recognized as Alaska Native tribes. This includes the communities of Anvik Village, Shageluk Native Village, and Holy Cross Village. The famous Iditarod Trail, used for dog sled races, follows old paths. These paths were first created by the Deg Hitʼan and other Native groups.
The Deg Hitʼan share their lands with other Native Alaskan groups. These include the Yup'ik people to their west and south. To the north, they live near the Holikachuk and Upper Kuskokwim people. The Dena'ina people are to their south.
Understanding Their Name
The Deg Hitʼan people have their own names for themselves and their language. They call themselves Deg Xitʼan, which means "local people." Their language is called Deg Xinag, meaning "local language." Sometimes, the name "Deg Xitʼan" or "Deg Hitʼan" is also used when talking about their language in English.
In the past, an older name, Ingalik, was sometimes used. This name came from the Yup'ik language. However, the Deg Hitʼan people find this name offensive. It is important to use their true names, Deg Hitʼan and Deg Xinag, to show respect for their culture.
See also
In Spanish: Deg Hit'an para niños
