Native Americans: Religion

War dance of Sauk & Mesquakie

• Indians believed that the world around them was filled with spirits with magical powers.
• Medicine men were the closest approximation to religious leaders.
• Ceremonies were performed individually or in a group for spiritual guidance, for success in hunting or war, or for unity and public rejoicing.
• Many Indians converted to Christianity due to the missionary work of the Catholic priests in Illinois.

Image: Courtesy The Edward E. Ayer Collection, The Newberry Library

How do they compare? Native Americans | French Settlers | African Slaves

© Illinois State Museum 31-Dec-96