Books with author Rob Staeger

The hunting practices of Native Americans differed throughout North and South America. Some hunted with bows and arrows, others with spears and clubs, and still others with snares and traps. This book discusses the ways in which Native Americans hunted in different regions, the weapons they used, and the types of animals that were hunted. It also describes the rituals the tribes performed before hunting, and explains how they used not only the meat, but also the bones, hide, and sinews of the animals they killed.

The tools and weapons used by Native American tribes were not just functional. Often, these tools and weapons were created during a special ceremony or ritual, so there was a spiritual significance to them as well. Shamans or medicine men would bless such items in the hope that they would serve their owners well. This book discusses the primary tools and weapons made by tribes in specific regions as well as how these tools and weapons were created and used.

While Native American religious beliefs vary from tribe to tribe, the one thing they have in common is a belief in a higher power. This power has many names: Manitou, Wakanda, Sila, or even just the Great Spirit. This book discusses the various beliefs held by tribes in each region of the Americas. It also describes some of the important rituals practiced in each religion.

Native Americans loved to play games. From the United States to Mexico to Canada, tribes everywhere played games as part of their rituals, to cure diseases, to make crops grow, or sometimes, just for the pure fun of the sport. This book discusses the types of games played by various tribes in specific regions. It also explains how these games were played, and the significance-religious and social-of each contest.

The modern state of Angola was established in 1975, when it won its freedom from Portugal. However, peace did not accompany Angola's independence. Instead, fighting between nationalist groups launched the country into nearly three decades of civil war. Although the civil war ended a decade ago, its effects are still being felt. Angola's people are among the poorest in the world, and it is home to more land mines than any other country. Angola does have some advantages, including vast reserves of diamonds and oil. Angolans hope to use the wealth from these resources to rebuild their shattered society.

In many of California's cities, the buildings of former Spanish missions are still standing. The history of the Spanish mission era in California was relatively short. When Spanish priests attempted to establish missions in California during the mid-18th century, their goal was to covert the native people of the region to Christianity. The Spaniards had no idea of the troubles ahead. They faced bad weather, shortages of food and other supplies, and culture clashes with the native tribes. Though the intent of the missions was honorable, many of the methods used to convert the Native Americans were horrible and violent. Although the mission era ended by the 1820s, much can be learned from the history of the California missions.