Women's Roles in Native American Tribes — Reading Comprehension

Women in Native American tribes had many important jobs. They helped their families and their whole community. Their work made life better for everyone.

Women often took care of the crops. They planted, watered, and picked corn, beans, and squash. These foods were called the "Three Sisters." Without women, there would be little to eat.

In some tribes, women were also leaders. They helped make big decisions. For example, Iroquois women chose the chiefs. They could even remove a chief if he was not fair. This gave them power and respect.

Women built homes called wigwams or longhouses. They made these from wood, bark, and grass. They kept the home safe and neat. Women also made baskets, pots, and clothes. These skills were passed down from mother to daughter.

One woman, Sacagawea, helped guide Lewis and Clark. She showed great bravery and skill. Sacagawea helped the group find food and talk to other tribes. She proved that women could be leaders and helpers in hard times.

Women also cared for children and taught them about their tribe’s ways. They told stories and sang songs. These stories kept the history of the tribe alive.

Because of all these jobs, women were respected. Their work held the tribe together. Each woman played a part in the tribe’s unity and strength.

Interesting Fact: Some Native American tribes passed down family names and property through the mother, not the father.

What crops did women grow?

Who helped choose Iroquois chiefs?

What did Sacagawea do?

Why were women respected?

How did women pass on tribal history?

What happened if a chief was not fair?

Women built wigwams. True or false?

What does unity mean?