Kuksu (religion) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Kuksu
Map of California showing hypotheses on the distribution of the Kuksu religion
Region	Northern California

Kuksu was a special religion or belief system practiced by Native American tribes in Northern California. They followed this religion before and when European settlers first arrived. Many tribes in Central and Northern California, from the Sacramento Valley to the Pacific Ocean, followed Kuksu.

Kuksu involved detailed ceremonial dances and special costumes. Tribal men performed rituals for good health, successful harvests and hunts, and good weather. They also had yearly mourning ceremonies, special events for growing up (like rites of passage), and ways to connect with the spirit world. A special group of men met in hidden underground rooms. They danced in disguises at public events.

Among the Patwin and Maidu tribes, a part of Kuksu called Hesi developed. This part was unique because women could also take part in it.

Scientists have found signs of Kuksu through archaeology. They have discovered underground dance rooms and wooden dance drums.

Kuksu in Northern California

Patwin People and Kuksu

The Patwin people in Northern California had very strong and clear Kuksu systems and rituals. Their traditions were deeply connected to this religion.

Maidu People and Kuksu

The Maidu people, also from Northern California, had important Kuksu systems and rituals. Their culture showed strong signs of these practices.

A Maidu Kuksu dancer

Pomo People and Kuksu

The Pomo people saw Kuksu as a spirit being. People saw their mythology and dance ceremonies, including the spirit of Kuksu or Guksu, between 1892 and 1904. The Pomo used the name Kuksu or Guksu for a supernatural being with a red beak. This being lived in a sweathouse at the southern end of the world. Healing was his special power.

The person who played Kuksu/Guksu in Pomo dance ceremonies was often seen as the medicine man. He dressed like Kuksu when helping sick people. A special ceremony dance was named after him. He also appeared in costume at most ceremonies for a short time to take away the villagers' illnesses.

All males were expected to join a ceremonial society. Some of their dances were private or secret from women and children. Some experts believe these societies did not have much power. Others say that in 1925, someone who saw the Clear Lake Pomo said: "The main part of religious activities was in a secret society called kuhma. This group was like those of the Patwin and Maidu. It was mostly made up of men and managed the rituals of the ancient Kuksu religion."

A Pomo headdress used in Kuksu ceremonies

Kuksu in Southern California

Kuksu also existed among groups in Southern California. These included the Ohlone/Costanoan, Salinan, Miwok, Esselen, and northernmost Yokuts tribes. However, the religion was less detailed in these southern groups compared to those in Northern California.

See also

In Spanish: Kuksu para niños