\[ \text { Add more to this? } \] In Renaissance times, Europeans were not the only ones accomplishing great things. There are 574 different Native American tribes, or "nations", recognized by the U.S. government today. Since 1492 , European explorers and settlers have tended to ignore the vast diversity of the people who had previously lived here. Native Americans in this way denies the vast cultural differences between tribes. First, there is the issue of language. The Navajo people of the Southwest and the Cherokees of the Southeast have totally unrelated languages.societies were ruled by men, but the Iroquois women chose the leaders. Native Americans lived in wigwams, hogans, igloos, tepees and longhouses. Some relied chiefly on hunting and fishing, while others domesticated crops.

In Renaissance times, Europeans were not the only ones accomplishing great things. There are 574 different Native American tribes, or "nations," recognized by the U.S. government today. Since 1492, European explorers and settlers have tended to ignore the vast diversity of the people who had previously lived here. This oversight not only diminishes the rich tapestry of Native American cultures but also perpetuates a narrative that overlooks their significant contributions to history, society, and the environment. Native Americans, in this way, are often homogenized, which denies the vast cultural differences between tribes. For instance, the issue of language is a profound indicator of this diversity. The Navajo people of the Southwest and the Cherokees of the Southeast speak totally unrelated languages, reflecting distinct worldviews and cultural practices. Furthermore, social structures varied widely among tribes; while many societies were patriarchal, the Iroquois Confederacy was notable for its matrilineal system, where women held significant power in choosing leaders and making decisions for the community. The architectural styles of Native American dwellings also illustrate their adaptability to different environments. Native Americans lived in wigwams, hogans, igloos, tepees, and longhouses, each suited to the climate and resources of their respective regions. For example, the Inuit constructed igloos from snow to provide insulation against the harsh Arctic climate, while Plains tribes utilized tepees made from buffalo hides that could be easily assembled and disassembled as they followed herds. Economically, Native American tribes exhibited a wide range of subsistence strategies. Some relied chiefly on hunting and fishing, utilizing advanced techniques and tools to sustain their communities, while others domesticated crops such as maize, beans, and squash—often referred to as the "Three Sisters"—which formed the basis of agricultural practices in many regions. The agricultural knowledge of Native Americans significantly influenced European settlers, who adopted these crops and farming techniques, leading to a transformation in the agricultural landscape of North America. Moreover, Native American spiritual beliefs and practices were deeply intertwined with their relationship to the land. Many tribes held a profound respect for nature, viewing themselves as stewards of the earth rather than its owners. This perspective fostered sustainable practices that ensured the health of ecosystems and the availability of resources for future generations. In summary, the rich diversity of Native American tribes during the Renaissance period and beyond is a testament to their resilience, adaptability, and ingenuity. Recognizing and celebrating this diversity is essential for understanding the full scope of American history and the contributions of Indigenous peoples to the cultural heritage of the continent.