Worksheet # 5 Home Questions Puzzle Links Next
TRIBES OF THE SOUTHWEST
Ah, but this rainbow of
cultures is only a start,
As those South and East
play also a part
In these grand traditions and
their wonderful lore
That we need honor long after
the heretofore.
As in the Southwest where
deserts convene,
Trying times are like cacti: frequently seen.
Since to farm in these
climes, scarce water must flow,
They built ditches and
channels did the clever Pueblo.
Who dwelt by the cliffs of
this near barren land
In their strong block houses
of adobe and sand.
Up to five stories high -- they used ladders to climb --
These homes baked in the sun, but gave shade from its shine.
And each one with a kiva, a room down below,
To worship the spirits that
make Nature flow.
And with drought ever-feared, it's surely no wonder
They did call on the gods of rain, wind and thunder.
And in bright colored masks,
with their hopes running high,
They would chant, sing, and
pray for a forecast less dry.
With a lively long dance to bring
rain from the blue
-- Well, they couldnÕt quite do it,
but, really, could you?
Now, Pueblo is a word for
town or for village
And sadly there was some
stealing and pillage,
By the Apache warriors and the fierce Navajo
Who oftÕ raided the crops of
their neighbor Pueblo.
For in Navajo clans a
fighting passion ran deep,
Though they also did farm as
well as raise sheep.
And the blankets they wove
are so splendid and fine,
TheyÕre prized the world over
for their artful design.
While Apache nearby were a
most fearsome match,
Who could strike like
lightning and be gone in its flash!
While one of their chiefs,
whose name we all know,
You might call on for courage,
just shout: Geronimo!
