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In many of her books, from the Desert series to the Lyle Kent series, June A. Reynolds integrates (and often centers) the Native Americans. In this article, we’ll be talking about the tribes of the Southwest or, more specifically, the Native Americans of Arizona.

The State of Arizona

With its stunning vistas, mesas towering over the horizon, sun-drenched desert, and grand winding canyons, Arizona is one of the most beautiful places on Earth; it is no surprise as to why it is home to vibrant and living Native American cultures–each with their own unique languages, traditions, and histories–who have lived in the area for millennia.

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The Tribes of the Southwest

There are 22 federally recognized tribes in Arizona. Essentially, what federal recognition means is that Indigenous tribes have the inherent authority to govern themselves within the borders of the United States, functioning as dependent nations that exist domestically. The most prominent of the recognized tribes are as such:

• The Navajo Nation is the largest tribe in the United States, inhabiting a vast territory across the Southwest, from Arizona to New Mexico. Their tradition of governance is deeply rooted in their clan system and oral history.
• The Hopi Tribe of Arizona is known for residing on three mesas in northeastern Arizona. They are best known for their katsina rites, the most publicized of which is the Snake Dance, where performers dance while holding live snakes.
• The Apache Tribes are well-known for their warrior traditions and deep understanding of the desert environment. While they fall under one umbrella, the Apache are split into many autonomous tribes.
• The Tohono O’odham Nation, whose name means “Desert People,” inhabit the Sonoran Desert in southern Arizona and northern Mexico. As their cultural resources are being threatened, they have begun many efforts to preserve what remains.
• The Salt Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, as their name suggests, actually comprises two distinct Native American tribes, the Pima and the Maricopa. They dwell in the Gila River Valley, harboring a long history of agriculture and irrigation.
• The Hualapai Tribe are settlers of the Grand Canyon region, who are known for their deep knowledge of the region’s ecology and their strong efforts to preserve their traditional lands.  
• The Havasupai Tribe live within the Grand Canyon itself, with records showing that they have been there for at least 800 years.

A Deep Connection to the Land

As with many Native Americans, the tribes of the Southwest also believe that land is not a resource that should simply be exploited. They see the land as a sacred entity, whose life and death is deeply intertwined with their spiritual beliefs and cultural practices. This is the basis for the Native American stereotype of being one with the land–but with some measure of truth to it.

All the tribes that have been mentioned above, each have their own creation stories and origin myths that connect them to specific places within their ancestral territories. The many mountains, rivers, and canyons of Arizona and beyond are imbued with spiritual significance. This is why ceremonies are often performed near them to honor and maintain tribal harmony with the natural world.

Their connection to the land is not only spiritual but also practical. Traditional ecological knowledge, passed down through generations, is crucial for survival in the arid environment.

As such, Native Americans have developed sophisticated techniques to thrive in the desert.

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Old But Living Traditions

While all Native American cultures have some renown for their diverse and vibrant artistic traditions, the tribes of the Southwest are best known for their weaving skills, which often incorporate symbolic designs, intricate patterns, and vibrant colors. Their specific use of certain textiles also results in very beautiful products. The tribes of the Southwest also have exquisite pottery skills, using geometric designs and symbolic motifs in their wares. This is because pottery, whilst being a functional craft, also carries ceremonial value.

These are just a few examples, but there is more to learn! The culture of the Native Americans of the Southwest is vibrant and almost inexhaustible.

The Desert series of books by June A. Reynolds are embedded with Native American culture, some from the Southwest. If you want a copy now, you can click this link to order one!