Otoe facts for kids
| Jiwére | |
|---|---|
Missouri Indian, Otoe Indian, and chief of the Ponca by Karl Bodmer, c. 1840-1843
|
|
| Total population | |
| 4655 enrolled | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
 United States ( Nebraska,  Oklahoma) |
|
| Languages | |
| English, Chiwere | |
| Religion | |
| Native American Church, Christianity | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Ioway, Missouria, Omaha, and other Siouan peoples |
The Otoe (Chiwere: Jiwére) are a Native American people. They come from the Midwestern United States. The Otoe language is called Chiwere. It is part of the Siouan language family. This means it is related to languages spoken by the Iowa and Missouri tribes.
Historically, the Otoe Tribe lived on the Central Plains. They were a semi-nomadic people. This means they moved around for part of the year. They lived along the Missouri River in areas that are now Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, and Missouri.
Life on the Plains
The Otoe people had a unique way of life. They built homes from elm bark when they stayed in one place. These were strong, round houses. When they traveled, they used tipis. Tipis are cone-shaped tents made from animal hides. Many other Plains tribes also used tipis.
Hunting and Farming
The Otoe often left their villages to hunt buffalo. Buffalo were very important for food, clothing, and tools. They also farmed crops like corn, beans, and squash. This mix of farming and hunting helped them survive. It allowed them to use different resources throughout the year.
The Otoe Today
Today, the Otoe people are part of the Otoe-Missouria Tribe of Indians. Most members live in Oklahoma. They work to keep their culture and traditions alive. This includes their language, stories, and ceremonies. The tribe has its own government. It works to improve life for its members.
Images for kids
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Historical tribal territory of the Otoe in green; present-day reservations in orange.
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Otoe delegation, 1881. Photographer John K. Hillers
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Otoe-Missouria Tribe Seal
