With colorful detail of the environments of a variety of North American Indians in the 17th and 18th centuries and quotes from native informants' views of their lives, this novel approach toward an understanding of native North American cultures presents in-depth description of ten economically and socially diverse populations. Aboriginal societies are compared and discussed using ecological theory and historical events to explain similarities and differences. Intended to use in the first course in North American Indians, the volume will help readers comprehend the vast diversity among native North Americans. The text is introduced by a brief account of the peopling of the New World, a presentation that includes opposing scholarly opinions. Then a comprehensive description of the ten aboriginal groups is given, classified as Foragers. Part-Time Gardeners, Affluent Hunters and Fishermen, and Intensive Farmers. Each section concludes with an analysis and comparison of the ways of life, and a final chapter explains the ecological point of view and applies it to the development of native North American culture. A brief epilogue depicts the contemporary situations of the aboriginal groups. --- excerpt from book's back cover