Beliefs

Despite great diversity, the religious beliefs of the native population of America had a number of common features. Indians believed in a single world power that penetrates everything existing. The Algonquin Indians called it Manitou, the Sioux – Wakonda, the Iroquois – Orenda, etc. Peoples of North America believed that the world that they inhabit is only part of the universe that also has upper and lower worlds. Animals, plants and natural phenomena were often viewed as relatives, patrons or ancestors and people believed to be connected to them with numerous bonds. Such beliefs were most spread among the North-West coast Indians, for example, among the Tlingit. It was believed that each person must enlist the supernatural support and find their patron-spirit in the appearance of a plant or an animal. To reach mystical contact with such spirit young men exercised lengthy fasts and secluded themselves in solitary places. The Great Plains Indians viewed various feathers, bones, sticks, small figures, etc. that were reverentially kept in special packages, as evidence of achieving communication with the spirits. Such packages were hid in the furthest from the entrance part of a dwelling, and if there was a danger, the owner did his best to save it. Along with the aspiration for individual contacts between people and spirits, North-American Indians performed rituals aimed at providing for the well-being of the whole community. Primitive ancestors – supernatural creatures who lived in the times of the creation and since then regularly visit the world of people – were symbolic participants of such rituals.
Religious rites were guide by chiefs or shamans.

Ritual costume of the Indians of California made of raven feathers.