120 chapters
51 hour read
Selected Chapters
120 chapters
THE NATIVE RACES. Vol. I. WILD TRIBES.
THE NATIVE RACES. Vol. I. WILD TRIBES.
SAN FRANCISCO: A. L. BANCROFT & COMPANY, PUBLISHERS. 1883. Entered according to Act of Congress in the Year 1882, by HUBERT H. BANCROFT, In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. All Rights Reserved. THE WORLD: The white part showing THE PACIFIC STATES....
19 minute read
THE NATIVE RACES. Vol. II. CIVILIZED NATIONS.
THE NATIVE RACES. Vol. II. CIVILIZED NATIONS.
SAN FRANCISCO: A. L. BANCROFT & COMPANY, PUBLISHERS. 1883. Entered according to Act of Congress in the Year 1882, by HUBERT H. BANCROFT, In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. All Rights Reserved....
15 minute read
PREFACE.
PREFACE.
In pursuance of a general plan involving the production of a series of works on the western half of North America, I present this delineation of its aboriginal inhabitants as the first. To the immense territory bordering on the western ocean from Alaska to Darien, and including the whole of Mexico and Central America, I give arbitrarily, for want of a better, the name Pacific States. Stretching almost from pole to equator, and embracing within its limits nearly one tenth of the earth's surface,
8 minute read
CHAPTER I. SAVAGISM AND CIVILIZATION.
CHAPTER I. SAVAGISM AND CIVILIZATION.
Definition of the Terms—The Universal Soul of Progress—Man the Instrument and not the Element of Progress—Origin of Progressional Phenomena—The Agency of Evil—Is Civilization Conducive to Happiness?—Objective and Subjective Humanity—Conditions Essential to Progress—Continental Configurations—Food and Climate—Wealth and Leisure—Association—War, Slavery, Religion, and Government—The Development of Progressional Law The American Civilization of the Sixteenth Century—Its Disappearance—The Past, a
7 minute read
CHAPTER I. ETHNOLOGICAL INTRODUCTION.
CHAPTER I. ETHNOLOGICAL INTRODUCTION.
Facts and Theories—Hypotheses concerning Origin—Unity of Race—Diversity of Race—Spontaneous Generation—Origin of Animals and Plants—Primordial Centres of Population—Distribution of Plants and Animals—Adaptability of Species to Locality—Classification of Species—Ethnological Tests—Races of the Pacific—First Intercourse with Europeans General Divisions—Hyperborean Nations—Aspects of Nature—Vegetation—Climate—Animals—The Eskimos—Their Country—Physical Characteristics—Dress—Dwellings—Food—Weapons—
1 minute read
CHAPTER III. GOVERNMENT OF THE NAHUA NATIONS.
CHAPTER III. GOVERNMENT OF THE NAHUA NATIONS.
System of Government—The Aztec Confederacy—Order of Succession—Election of Kings among the Mexicans—Royal Prerogatives—Government and Laws of Succession among the Toltecs, and in Michoacan, Tlascala, Cholula, Huexotzinco, and Oajaca—Magnificence of the Nahua Monarchs—Ceremony of Anointment—Ascent to the Temple—The Holy Unction—Address of the High-Priest to the King—Penance and Fasting in the House called Tlacatecco—Homage of the Nobles—General Rejoicing throughout the Kingdom—Ceremony of Coronat
26 minute read
CHAPTER III. COLUMBIANS.
CHAPTER III. COLUMBIANS.
Habitat of the Columbian Group—Physical Geography—Sources of Food Supply—Influence of Food and Climate—Four extreme Classes—Haidahs—Their Home—Physical Peculiarities—Clothing—Shelter—Sustenance—Implements—Manufactures—Arts—Property—Laws—Slavery—Women—Customs—Medicine—Death—The Nootkas—The Sound Nations—The Chinooks—The Shushwaps—The Salish—The Sahaptins...
6 minute read
CHAPTER IV. PALACES AND HOUSEHOLDS OF THE NAHUA KINGS.
CHAPTER IV. PALACES AND HOUSEHOLDS OF THE NAHUA KINGS.
Extent and Interior of the Great Palace in Mexico—The Palace of Nezahualcoyotl, King of Tezcuco—The Zoölogical Collections of the Nahua Monarchs—Montezuma's Oratory—Royal Gardens and Pleasure-Grounds—The Hill of Chapultepec—Nezahualcoyotl's Country Residence at Tezcozinco—Toltec Palaces—The Royal Guard—The King's Meals—An Aztec Cuisine—The Audience Chamber—After-dinner Amusements—The Royal Wardrobe—The King Among his People—Meeting of Montezuma II. and Cortés—The King's Harem—Revenues of the Roy
18 minute read
CHAPTER IV. CALIFORNIANS.
CHAPTER IV. CALIFORNIANS.
Groupal Divisions; Northern, Central, and Southern Californians, and Shoshones—Country of the Californians—The Klamaths, Modocs, Shastas, Pitt River Indians, Eurocs, Cahrocs, Hoopahs, Weeyots, Tolewahs, and Rogue River Indians and their Customs—The Tehamas, Pomos, Ukiahs, Gualalas, Sonomas, Petalumas, Napas, Suscols, Suisunes, Tamales, Karquines, Tulomos, Thamiens, Olchones, Runsiens, Escelens, and others of Central California—The Cahuillos, Diegueños, Islanders, and Mission Rancherías of Southe
20 minute read
CHAPTER V. THE PRIVILEGED CLASSES AMONG THE NAHUAS.
CHAPTER V. THE PRIVILEGED CLASSES AMONG THE NAHUAS.
Titles of the Nobility and Gentry—The Power of the Nobles—The Aristocracy of Tezcuco—The Policy of King Techotlalatzin—Privileges of the Nobles—Montezuma's Policy—Rivalry between Nobles and Commons—The Knightly Order of Tecuhtli—Ceremony of Initiation—Origin of the Order—The Nahua Priesthood—The Priests of Mexico—Dedication of Children—Priestesses—Priesthood of Miztecapan—The Pontiff of Yopaa—Tradition of Wixipecocha—The Cave of Yopaa—The Zapotec Priests—Toltec Priests—Totonac Priests—Priests of
18 minute read
CHAPTER V. NEW MEXICANS.
CHAPTER V. NEW MEXICANS.
Geographical Position of this Group, and Physical Features of the Territory—Family Divisions; Apaches, Pueblos, Lower Californians, and Northern Mexicans—The Apache Family: Comanches, Apaches Proper, Hualapais, Yumas, Cosninos, Yampais, Yalchedunes, Yamajabs, Cruzados, Nijoras, Navajos, Mojaves, and their Customs—The Pueblo Family: Pueblos, Moquis, Pimas, Maricopas, Pápagos, and their Neighbors—The Cochimis, Waicuris, Pericuis, and other Lower Californians—The Seris, Sinaloas, Tarahumares, Conch
18 minute read
CHAPTER VI. PLEBEIANS, SLAVES, TENURE OF LANDS, AND TAXATION.
CHAPTER VI. PLEBEIANS, SLAVES, TENURE OF LANDS, AND TAXATION.
Influence of the Commoners—Oppression by Nobles—Deprived of Office by Montezuma II.—Classes of Slaves—Penal Slaves—Voluntary Slavery—Slave Market at Azcapuzalco—Punishment and Privileges of Slaves—Division of Lands—Crown Lands—Lands of the Nobles—Municipal Property—Property of the Temples—Tenure of Lands in Zapotecapan, Miztecapan, Michoacan, Tlascala, Cholula, and Huexotzinco—Similarity to Feudal System of Europe—System of Taxation—Municipal Taxes—Lice Tribute—Tribute from Conquered Provinces—R
36 minute read
CHAPTER VII. EDUCATION, MARRIAGE, CONCUBINAGE, CHILDBIRTH, AND BAPTISM.
CHAPTER VII. EDUCATION, MARRIAGE, CONCUBINAGE, CHILDBIRTH, AND BAPTISM.
Education of the Nahua Youth—Manner of Punishment—Marriage Preliminaries—Nuptial Ceremony—Observance after Marriage—Mazatec, Otomí, Chichimec, and Toltec Marriages—Divorce—Concubinage—Ceremonies Preliminary to Childbirth—Treatment of Pregnant Women—Proceedings of Midwife—Superstitions with regard to Women who Died in Childbed—Abortion—Baptism—Speeches of Midwife—Naming of Children—Baptism among the Tlascaltecs, Mixtecs, and Zapotecs—Circumcision and Scarification of Infants...
14 minute read
CHAPTER VI. WILD TRIBES OF MEXICO.
CHAPTER VI. WILD TRIBES OF MEXICO.
Territorial Aspects—Two Main Divisions; Wild Tribes of Central Mexico, and Wild Tribes of Southern Mexico—The Coras and others in Jalisco—Descendants of the Aztecs—The Otomís and Mazahuas Adjacent to the Valley of Mexico—The Pames—The Tarascos and Matlaltzincas of Michoacan—The Huaztecs and Totonacos of Vera Cruz and Tamaulipas—The Chontales, Chinantecs, Mazatecs, Cuicatecs, Chatinos, Miztecs, Zapotecs, Mijes, Huaves, Chiapanecs, Zoques, Lacandones, Choles, Mames, Tzotziles, Tzendales, Chochones
20 minute read
CHAPTER VIII. NAHUA FEASTS AND AMUSEMENTS.
CHAPTER VIII. NAHUA FEASTS AND AMUSEMENTS.
Excessive Fondness for Feasts—Manner of Giving Feasts—Serving the Meal—Professional Jesters—Parting Presents to Guests—Royal Banquets—Tobacco Smoking—Public Dances—Manner of Singing and Dancing—The Neteteliztli—The Drama among the Nahuas—Music and Musical Instruments—Nahua Poetry—Acrobatic Feats—The Netololiztli, or 'Bird Dance'—Professional Runners—The Game of Tlactli—Games of Chance—The Patoliztli, or 'Bean Game'—Totoloque, Montezuma's Favorite Game...
14 minute read
CHAPTER VII. WILD TRIBES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
CHAPTER VII. WILD TRIBES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
Physical Geography and Climate—Three Groupal Divisions; First, the nations of Yucatan, Guatemala, Salvador, Western Honduras, and Nicaragua; Second, The Mosquitos of Honduras; Third, the nations of Costa Rica and the Isthmus of Panamá—The Popolucas, Pipiles and Chontales—The Descendants of the Maya-Quiché Races—The Natives of Nicaragua—The Mosquitos, Poyas, Ramas, Lencas, Towkas, Woolwas, and Xicaques of Honduras—The Guatusos of the Rio Frio—The Caimanes, Bayamos, Dorachos, Goajiros, Mandingos,
22 minute read
CHAPTER IX. PUBLIC FESTIVALS.
CHAPTER IX. PUBLIC FESTIVALS.
Frequent Occurrence of Religious Feasts—Human Sacrifices—Feasts of the Fourth Year—Monthly Festivals—Sacrifice of Children—Feast of Xipe—Manner of Sacrifice—Feasts of Camaxtli, of the Flower Dealers, of Centeotl, of Tezcatlipoca, and of Huitzilopochtli—Festival of the Salt Makers—The Sacrifice by Fire—Feast of the Dead—The Coming of the Gods—The Footprints on the Mat—Hunting Feast—The Month of Love—Hard Times—Nahua Lupercalia—Feasts of the Sun, of the Winter Solstice—Harvest and Eight-Year Festi
19 minute read
CHAPTER I. ETHNOLOGICAL INTRODUCTION.
CHAPTER I. ETHNOLOGICAL INTRODUCTION.
Facts and Theories—Hypotheses concerning Origin—Unity of Race—Diversity of Race—Spontaneous Generation—Origin of Animals and Plants—Primordial Centres of Population—Distribution of Plants and Animals—Adaptability of Species to Locality—Classification of Species—Ethnological Tests—Races of the Pacific—First Intercourse with Europeans. Facts are the raw material of science. They are to philosophy and history, what cotton and iron are to cloth and steam-engines. Like the raw material of the manufac
2 hour read
CHAPTER X. FOOD OF THE NAHUA NATIONS.
CHAPTER X. FOOD OF THE NAHUA NATIONS.
Origin of Agriculture—Floating Gardens—Agricultural Products—Manner of preparing the Soil—Description of Agricultural Implements—Irrigation—Granaries—Gardens—The Harvest Feast—Manner of Hunting—Fishing—Methods of procuring Salt—Nahua Cookery—Various kinds of Bread—Beans—Pepper—Fruit—Tamales—Miscellaneous Articles of Food—Eating of Human Flesh—Manufacture of Pulque—Preparation of Chocolatl—Other Beverages—Intoxicating Drinks—Drunkenness—Time and Manner of Taking Meals...
12 minute read
TRIBAL BOUNDARIES.
TRIBAL BOUNDARIES.
FOOD AND ITS PREPARATION. Their natural improvidence, or an occasional unlucky hunting or fishing season, often reduces them to want, and in such case the resort is to roots, berries, and mosses, several varieties of which are also gathered and laid up as a part of their regular winter supplies. Chief among the roots are the camass, a sweet, onion-like bulb, which grows in moist prairies, the couse, which flourishes in more sterile and rocky spots, and the bitter-root, which names a valley and m
27 minute read
CHAPTER XI. DRESS OF THE NAHUA NATIONS.
CHAPTER XI. DRESS OF THE NAHUA NATIONS.
Progress in Dress—Dress of the Pre-Aztec Nations—Garments of the Chichimecs and Toltecs—Introduction of Cotton—The Maxtli—The Tilmatli—Dress of the Acolhuas—Origin of the Tarascan Costume—Dress of the Zapotecs and Tabascans—Dress of Women—The Huipil and Cueitl—Sandals—Manner of Wearing the Hair—Painting and Tattooing—Ornaments used by the Nahuas—Gorgeous Dress of the Nobles—Dress of the Royal Attendants—Names of the Various Mantles—The Royal Diadem—The Royal Wardrobe—Costly Decorations...
18 minute read
TRIBAL BOUNDARIES.
TRIBAL BOUNDARIES.
According to another form of marriage the man either asked the girl's parents for permission to marry their daughter, or commissioned one of his friends to do so. If the parents approved, their future son-in-law took up his abode with them, on condition that he should provide a certain quantity of food every day. This was done to afford him an opportunity to judge of the domestic qualities of his future wife. If satisfied, he appointed a day for the marriage, and the ceremony was conducted much
37 minute read
CHAPTER XII. COMMERCE OF THE NAHUA NATIONS.
CHAPTER XII. COMMERCE OF THE NAHUA NATIONS.
The Main Features of Nahua Commerce—Commerce in Pre-Aztec Times—Outrages Committed by Aztec Merchants—Privileges of the Merchants of Tlatelulco—Jealousy between Merchants and Nobles—Articles used as Currency—The Markets of Anáhuac—Arrangement and Regulations of the Market-Places—Number of Buyers and Sellers—Transportation of Wares—Traveling Merchants—Commercial Routes—Setting out on a Journey—Caravans of Traders—The Return—Customs and Feasts of the Merchants—Nahua Boats and Navigation...
16 minute read
TRIBAL BOUNDARIES.
TRIBAL BOUNDARIES.
NORTHERN CALIFORNIANS. DEATH AND BURIAL IN LOWER CALIFORNIA. Death is followed by a plaintive, mournful chant, attended with howling by friends and relatives, who beat their heads with sharp stones until blood flows freely. Without further ceremony they either inter or burn the body immediately, according to the custom of the locality: in the latter case they leave the head intact. Oftentimes they bury or burn the body before life has actually left it, never taking pains to ascertain the fact. [
27 minute read
TRIBAL BOUNDARIES.
TRIBAL BOUNDARIES.
The natives of Tehuantepec and especially those who reside in the Goazacoalco district are neat and clean in regard to their personal habits. They observe the custom of bathing daily. In their ablutions they make use of a plant called chintule the root of which they mix with water, thereby imparting to their bodies a strong aromatic odor. The same plant is used when they wash their clothes, the scent from which remains on them for some time. A pleasing feature in the appearance of these people i
20 minute read
CHAPTER XIII. WAR-CUSTOMS OF THE NAHUAS.
CHAPTER XIII. WAR-CUSTOMS OF THE NAHUAS.
Importance of the Military Profession—Indications of Rank—Education of Warriors—Rewards for Valor—Military Orders and their Dress—Gorgeous War-Dresses of Montezuma and the Aztec Nobility—Dress of the Common Soldiers—Armor and Defensive Weapons—Offensive Weapons—Standards—Ambassadors and Couriers—Fortifications—The Military Council—Articles of War—Declaration of War—Spies—Order of March and Battle—War Customs of the Tlascaltecs and Tarascos—Return of the Conquering Army—Celebration of Feats of Ar
16 minute read
CHAPTER XIV. NAHUA LAWS AND LAW COURTS.
CHAPTER XIV. NAHUA LAWS AND LAW COURTS.
General Remarks—the Cihuacoatl, or Supreme Judge—the Court of the Tlacatecatl—Jurisdiction of the Tecuhtlis—the Centectlapixques and Topillis—Law Courts and Judges of Tezcuco—Eighty-Day Council—Tribunal of the King—Court Proceedings—Lawyers—Witnesses—Remuneration of Judges—Justice of King Nezahualpilli—He orders his Son's Execution—Montezuma and the Farmer—Jails—Laws against Theft, Murder, Treason, Kidnapping, Drunkenness, Witchcraft, Adultery, Incest, Sodomy, Fornication, and other Crimes—Story
17 minute read
TRIBAL BOUNDARIES.
TRIBAL BOUNDARIES.
Under the name Wild Tribes of Mexico , I include all the people inhabiting the Mexican Territory from ocean to ocean, between latitude 23° north and the Central American boundary line south, including Yucatan and Tehuantepec. The southernmost point of this division touches the fifteenth degree of north latitude. A subdivision of this group is made and the parts are called the Central Mexicans , and the Southern Mexicans , respectively. In the former I include the nations north of an imaginary li
2 hour read
TRIBAL BOUNDARIES.
TRIBAL BOUNDARIES.
The Wild Tribes of Central America , the last groupal division of this work, extend from the western boundary of Guatemala, south and eastward, to the Rio Atrato. I have divided the group into three subdivisions, namely: the Guatemalans , the Mosquitos , and the Isthmians . The Guatemalans , for the purposes of this delineation, embrace those nations occupying the present states of Guatemala, Salvador, and portions of Nicaragua. The Lacandones are a wild nation inhabiting the Chammá mountains on
58 minute read
CHAPTER XV. NAHUA ARTS AND MANUFACTURES.
CHAPTER XV. NAHUA ARTS AND MANUFACTURES.
Metals Used and Manner of Obtaining Them—Working of Gold and Silver—Wonderful Skill in Imitating Gilding and Plating—Working in Stone—Lapidary Work—Wood Carving—Manufacture of Pottery—Various Kinds of Cloth—Manufacture of Paper and Leather—Preparation of Dyes and Paints—The Art of Painting—Feather Mosaic Work—Leaf-Mats—Manner of Kindling Fire—Torches—Soap—Council of Arts in Tezcuco—Oratory and Poetry—Nezahualcoyotl's Odes on the Mutability of Life, and the Tyrant Tezozomoc—Aztec Arithmetical Sys
17 minute read
CHAPTER XVI. THE AZTEC CALENDAR.
CHAPTER XVI. THE AZTEC CALENDAR.
Astronomical Knowledge of the Aztecs—Contradictions of Authors respecting the Calendar—Value of the Researches of Various Writers—The First Regular Calendar—The Mexican Cycle—The Civil Year—The Aztec Months—Names of the Days and their Signification—The Commencement of the Aztec Year—The Ritual Calendar—Gama's Arrangement of the Months—The Calendar-Stone—The Four Destructions of the World—The Calendar of Michoacan—Reckoning of the Zapotecs...
15 minute read
CHAPTER XVII. THE AZTEC PICTURE-WRITING.
CHAPTER XVII. THE AZTEC PICTURE-WRITING.
Hieroglyphic Records—The Native Books—Authorities—Destruction of the Native Archives by Zumárraga and his Confrères—Picture-Writings used after the Conquest for Confession and Law-Suits—Value of the Records—Documents sent to Spain in the Sixteenth Century—European Collections—Lord Kingsborough's Work—Picture-Writings retained in Mexico—Collections of Ixtlilxochitl, Sigüenza, Gemelli Careri, Boturini, Veytia, Leon y Gama, Pichardo, Aubin, and the National Museum of Mexico—Process of Hieroglyphic
23 minute read
CHAPTER XVIII. ARCHITECTURE AND DWELLINGS OF THE NAHUAS.
CHAPTER XVIII. ARCHITECTURE AND DWELLINGS OF THE NAHUAS.
Architecture of the Ancient Nations—General Features of Nahua Architecture—The Arch—Exterior and Interior Decorations—Method of Building—Inclined Planes—Scaffolds—The use of the Plummet—Building Materials—Position and Fortification of Towns—Mexico Tenochtitlan—The Great Causeways—Quarters and Wards of Mexico—The Market Place—Fountains and Aqueducts—Light-houses and Street-work—City of Tezcuco—Dwellings—Aztec Gardens—Temple of Huitzilopochtli—Temple of Mexico—Other Temples—Teocalli at Cholula and
15 minute read
CHAPTER XIX. MEDICINE AND FUNERAL RITES AMONG THE NAHUAS.
CHAPTER XIX. MEDICINE AND FUNERAL RITES AMONG THE NAHUAS.
Mexican Contributions to Medical Science—The Botanical Gardens—Longevity—Prevalent Diseases—Introduction of Small-Pox and Syphilis—Medical Treatment—The Temazcalli—Aboriginal Physicians—The Aztec Faculty—Standard Remedies—Surgery—Superstitious Ceremonies in Healing—Funeral Rites of Aztecs—Cremation—Royal Obsequies—Embalming—The Funeral Pyre—Human Sacrifice—Disposal of the Ashes and Ornaments—Mourners—Funeral Ceremonies of the People—Certain Classes Buried—Rites for the Slain in Battle—Burial amo
17 minute read
CHAPTER XX. GOVERNMENT, SOCIAL CLASSES, PROPERTY, AND LAWS OF THE MAYA NATIONS.
CHAPTER XX. GOVERNMENT, SOCIAL CLASSES, PROPERTY, AND LAWS OF THE MAYA NATIONS.
Introductory Remarks—Votan's Empire—Zamná's Reign—The Royal Families of Yucatan, Cocomes, Tutul Xius, Itzas, and Cheles—Titles and Order of Succession—Classes of Nobles—The Quiché-Cakchiquel Empire in Guatemala—The Ahau Ahpop and Succession to the Throne—Privileged Classes—Government of the Provinces—The Royal Council—The Chiapanecs—The Pipiles—Nations of Nicaragua—The Maya Priesthood—Plebeian Classes—Slaves—Tenure of Lands—Inheritance of Property—Taxation—Debtors and Creditor—Laws and the Admin
17 minute read
CHAPTER XXI. EDUCATION AND FAMILY MATTERS AMONG THE MAYAS.
CHAPTER XXI. EDUCATION AND FAMILY MATTERS AMONG THE MAYAS.
Education of Youth—Public Schools of Guatemala—Branches of Study in Yucatan—Marrying-Age—Degrees of Consanguinity allowed in Marriage—Preliminaries of Marriage—Marriage Ceremonies—The Custom of the Droit du Seigneur in Nicaragua—Widows—Monogamy—Concubinage—Divorce—Laws Concerning Adultery—Fornication—Rape—Prostitution—Unnatural Crimes—Desire for Children—Childbirth Ceremonies—Rite of Circumcision—Manner of Naming Children—Baptismal Ceremonies...
12 minute read
CHAPTER XXII. FEASTS AND AMUSEMENTS OF THE MAYAS.
CHAPTER XXII. FEASTS AND AMUSEMENTS OF THE MAYAS.
Special Observances—Fixed Feasts—Sacrifice of Slaves—Monthly Feasts of the Yucatecs—Renewal of the Idols—Feast of the Chacs—Hunting Festival—The Tuppkak—Feast of the Cacao-Planters—War Feast—The Maya New Year's Day—Feasts of the Hunters, Fishers, and Apiarists—Ceremonies in honor of Cukulcan—Feast of the Month of Mol—Feasts of the Years Kan, Muluc, Ix, and Cauac—Yucatec Sacrifices—The Pit of Chichen—Sacrifices of the Pipiles—Feast of Victory—Feasts and Sacrifices in Nicaragua—Banquets—Dances—Mus
18 minute read
CHAPTER XXIII. FOOD, DRESS, COMMERCE, AND WAR CUSTOMS OF THE MAYAS.
CHAPTER XXIII. FOOD, DRESS, COMMERCE, AND WAR CUSTOMS OF THE MAYAS.
Introduction of Agriculture—Quiché Tradition of the Discovery of Maize—Maize Culture—Superstitions of Farmers—Hunting and Fishing—Domestic Animals, Fowl, and Bees—Preservation and Cooking of Food—Meals—Drinks and Drinking—Habits—Cannibalism—Dress of the Mayas—Maxtlis, Mantles, and Sandals—Dress of Kings and Priests—Women's Dress—Hair and Beard—Personal Decoration—Head-Flattening, Perforation, Tattooing, and Painting—Personal Habits—Commerce—Currency—Markets—Superstitions of Travelers—Canoes and
15 minute read
CHAPTER XXIV. MAYA ARTS, CALENDAR, AND HIEROGLYPHICS.
CHAPTER XXIV. MAYA ARTS, CALENDAR, AND HIEROGLYPHICS.
Scarcity of Information—Use of Metals—Gold and Precious Stones—Implements of Stone—Sculpture—Pottery—Manufacture of Cloth—Dyeing—System of Numeration—Maya Calendar in Yucatan—Days, Weeks, Months, and Years—Indictions and Katunes—Perez' System of Ahau Katunes—Statements of Landa and Cogolludo—Intercalary Days and Years—Days and Months in Guatemala, Chiapas, and Soconusco—Maya Hieroglyphic System—Testimony of Early Writers on the Use of Picture-Writing—Destruction of Documents—Specimens which have
20 minute read
CHAPTER XXV. BUILDINGS, MEDICINE, BURIAL, PHYSICAL PECULIARITIES, AND CHARACTER OF THE MAYAS.
CHAPTER XXV. BUILDINGS, MEDICINE, BURIAL, PHYSICAL PECULIARITIES, AND CHARACTER OF THE MAYAS.
Scanty Information given by the Early Voyagers—Private Houses of the Mayas—Interior Arrangement, Decoration, and Furniture—Maya Cities—Description of Utatlan—Patinamit, the Cakchiquel Capital—Cities of Nicaragua—Maya Roads—Temples at Chichen Itza and Cozumel—Temples of Nicaragua and Guatemala—Diseases of the Mayas—Medicines used—Treatment of the Sick—Propitiatory Offerings and Vows—Superstitions—Dreams—Omens—Witchcraft—Snake-Charmers—Funeral Rites and Ceremonies—Physical Peculiarities—Character
23 minute read
CHAPTER I. SAVAGISM AND CIVILIZATION.
CHAPTER I. SAVAGISM AND CIVILIZATION.
Definition of the Terms—Force and Nature—The Universal Soul of Progress—Man the Instrument and not the Element of Progress—Origin of Progressional Phenomena—The Agency of Evil—Is Civilization Conducive to Happiness?—Objective and Subjective Humanity—Conditions Essential to Progress—Continental Configurations—Food and Climate—Wealth and Leisure—Association—War, Slavery, Religion, and Government—Morality and Fashion—The Development of Progressional Law. The terms Savage and Civilized, as applied t
2 hour read
ETYMOLOGY OF NAMES.
ETYMOLOGY OF NAMES.
Acolhuas ;—Possibly from coloa , 'to bend,' meaning with the prefix atl , 'water-colhuas,' or 'people at the bend of the water.' Not from acolli , 'shoulder,' nor from colli , 'grandfather.' Buschmann , Ortsnamen , pp. 85, 89. ' Coloa , encoruar, o entortar algo, o rodear yendo camino.' ' Acolli , ombro.' ' Culhuia , lleuar a otro por rodeos a alguna parte.' Molina , Vocabulario . Colli , 'grand-father,' plural colhuan . Colhuacan , or Culiacan , may then mean 'the land of our ancestors.' Gallat
48 minute read
CHAPTER III. GOVERNMENT OF THE NAHUA NATIONS.
CHAPTER III. GOVERNMENT OF THE NAHUA NATIONS.
System of Government—The Aztec Confederacy—Order of Succession—Election of Kings among the Mexicans—Royal Prerogatives—Government and Laws of Succession among the Toltecs and in Michoacan, Tlascala, Cholula, Huexotzinco, and Oajaca—Magnificence of the Nahua Monarchs—Ceremony of Anointment—Ascent to the Temple—The Holy Unction—Address of the High-Priest to the King—Penance And Fasting in the House called Tlacatecco—Homage of the Nobles—General Rejoicing throughout the Kingdom—Ceremony of Coronati
31 minute read
CHAPTER IV. PALACES AND HOUSEHOLDS OF THE NAHUA KINGS.
CHAPTER IV. PALACES AND HOUSEHOLDS OF THE NAHUA KINGS.
Extent and Interior of the Great Palace in Mexico—The Palace of Nezahualcoyotl, King of Tezcuco—The Zoölogical Collections of the Nahua Monarchs—Montezuma's Oratory—Royal Gardens and Pleasure-Grounds—The Hill of Chapultepec—Nezahualcoyotl's Country Residence at Tezcozinco—Toltec Palaces—the Royal Guard—The King's Meals—An Aztec Cuisine—The Audience Chamber—After-dinner Amusements—The Royal Wardrobe—The King Among his People—Meeting of Montezuma II. and Cortés—the King's Harem—Revenues of the Roy
33 minute read
CHAPTER V. THE PRIVILEGED CLASSES AMONG THE NAHUAS.
CHAPTER V. THE PRIVILEGED CLASSES AMONG THE NAHUAS.
Titles of the Nobility and Gentry—The Power of the Nobles—The Aristocracy of Tezcuco—The Policy of King Techotlalatzin—Privileges of the Nobles—Montezuma's Policy—Rivalry between Nobles and Commons—The Knightly Order of Tecuhtli—Ceremony of Initiation—Origin of the Order—The Nahua Priesthood—The Priests of Mexico—Dedication of Children—Priestesses—Priesthood of Miztecapan—The Pontiff of Yopaa—Tradition of Wixipecocha—The Cave of Yopaa—The Zapotec Priests—Toltec Priests—Totonac Priests—Priests of
42 minute read
CHAPTER VI. PLEBEIANS, SLAVES, TENURE OF LANDS, AND TAXATION.
CHAPTER VI. PLEBEIANS, SLAVES, TENURE OF LANDS, AND TAXATION.
Influence of the Commoners—Oppression by Nobles—Deprived of Office by Montezuma II.—Classes of Slaves—Penal Slaves—Voluntary Slavery—Slave Market at Azcapuzalco—Punishment and Privileges of Slaves—Division of Lands—Crown Lands—Lands of the Nobles—Municipal Property—Property of the Temples—Tenure of Lands in Zapotecapan, Miztecapan, Michoacan, Tlascala, Cholula, and Huexotzinco—Similarity to Feudal System of Europe—System of Taxation—Municipal Taxes—Lice Tribute—Tribute from Conquered Provinces—R
30 minute read
CHAPTER VII. EDUCATION, MARRIAGE, CONCUBINAGE, CHILDBIRTH, AND BAPTISM.
CHAPTER VII. EDUCATION, MARRIAGE, CONCUBINAGE, CHILDBIRTH, AND BAPTISM.
Education of the Nahua Youth—Manner of Punishment—Marriage Preliminaries—Nuptial Ceremony—Observance after Marriage—Mazatec, Otomí, Chichimec, and Toltec Marriages—Divorce—Concubinage—Ceremonies Preliminary to Childbirth—Treatment of Pregnant Woman—Proceedings of Midwife—Superstitions with regard to Women who Died in Childbed—Abortion—Baptism—Speeches of Midwife—Naming of Children—Baptism among the Tlascaltecs, Miztecs, and Zapotecs—Circumcision and Scarification of Infants. In examining the dom
56 minute read
CHAPTER VIII. NAHUA FEASTS AND AMUSEMENTS.
CHAPTER VIII. NAHUA FEASTS AND AMUSEMENTS.
Excessive Fondness for Feasts—Manner of Giving Feasts—Serving the Meal—Professional Jesters—Parting Presents to Guests—Royal Banquets—Tobacco Smoking—Public Dances—Manner of Singing and Dancing—The Neteteliztli—The Drama among the Nahuas—Music and Musical Instruments—Nahua Poetry—Acrobatic Feats—The Netololiztli, or 'Bird Dance'—Professional Runners—The Game of Tlactli—Games of Chance—The Patoliztli, or 'Bean Game'—Totoloque, Montezuma's Favorite Game. FEASTS AND ENTERTAINMENTS. The excessive fo
23 minute read
CHAPTER IX. PUBLIC FESTIVALS.
CHAPTER IX. PUBLIC FESTIVALS.
Frequent Occurrence of Religious Feasts—Human Sacrifices—Feasts of the Fourth Year—Monthly Festivals—Sacrifice of Children—Feast of Xipe—Manner of Sacrifice—Feasts of Camaxtli, of the Flower-Dealers, of Centeotl, of Tezcatlipoca, and of Huitzilopochtli—Festival of the Salt-Makers—The Sacrifice by Fire—Feast of the Dead—The Coming of the Gods—The Footprints on the Mat—Hunting Feast—The Month of Love—Hard Times—Nahua Lupercalia—Feasts of the Sun, of the Winter Solstice—Harvest and Eight-Year Festi
53 minute read
CHAPTER X. FOOD OF THE NAHUA NATIONS.
CHAPTER X. FOOD OF THE NAHUA NATIONS.
Origin of Agriculture—Floating Gardens—Agricultural Products—Manner of Preparing the Soil—Description of Agricultural Implements—Irrigation—Granaries—Gardens—the Harvest Feast—Manner of Hunting—Fishing—Methods of Procuring Salt—Nahua Cookery—Various Kinds of Bread—Beans—Pepper—Fruit—Tamales—Miscellaneous Articles of Food—Eating of Human Flesh—Manufacture of Pulque—Preparation of Chocolatl—Other Beverages—Intoxicating Drinks—Drunkenness—Time and Manner of Taking Meals. AGRICULTURE AND CIVILIZATIO
23 minute read
CHAPTER XI. DRESS OF THE NAHUA NATIONS.
CHAPTER XI. DRESS OF THE NAHUA NATIONS.
Progress in Dress—Dress of the Pre-Aztec Nations—Garments of the Chichimecs and Toltecs—Introduction of Cotton—The Maxtli—The Tilmatli—Dress of the Acolhuas—Origin of the Tarascan Costume—Dress of the Zapotecs and Tabascans—Dress of Women—The Huipil and Cueitl—Sandals—Manner of Wearing the Hair—Painting and Tattooing—Ornaments Used by the Nahuas—Gorgeous Dress of the Nobles—Dress of the Royal Attendants—Names of the Various Mantles—The Royal Diadem—The Royal Wardrobe—Costly Decorations. With but
14 minute read
CHAPTER XII. COMMERCE OF THE NAHUA NATIONS.
CHAPTER XII. COMMERCE OF THE NAHUA NATIONS.
The Main Features of Nahua Commerce—Commerce in Pre-Aztec Times—Outrages Committed by Aztec Merchants—Privileges of the Merchants of Tlatelulco—Jealousy between Merchants and Nobles—Articles used as Currency—the Markets of Anáhuac—Arrangement and Regulations of the Market-Places—Number of Buyers and Sellers—Transportation of Wares—Traveling Merchants—Commercial Routes—Setting out on a Journey—Caravans of Traders—The Return—Customs and Feasts of the Merchants—Nahua Boats and Navigation. COMMERCE
29 minute read
CHAPTER XIII. WAR CUSTOMS OF THE NAHUAS.
CHAPTER XIII. WAR CUSTOMS OF THE NAHUAS.
Importance of the Military Profession—Indications of Rank—Education of Warriors—Rewards for Valor—Military Orders and their Dress—Gorgeous War-Dresses of Montezuma and the Aztec Nobility—Dress of the Common Soldiers—Armor and Defensive Weapons—Offensive Weapons—Standards—Ambassadors and Couriers—Fortifications—The Military Council—Articles of War—Declaration of War—Spies—Order of March and Battle—War Customs of the Tlascaltecs and Tarascos—Return of the Conquering Army—Celebration of Feats of Ar
43 minute read
CHAPTER XIV. NAHUA LAWS AND LAW COURTS.
CHAPTER XIV. NAHUA LAWS AND LAW COURTS.
General Remarks—the Cihuacoatl, or Supreme Judge—the Court of the Tlacatecatl—Jurisdiction of the Tecuhtlis—the Centectlapixques and Topillis—Law Courts and Judges of Tezcuco—Eighty-Day Council—Tribunal of the King—Court Proceedings—Lawyers—Witnesses—Remuneration of Judges—Justice of King Nezahualpilli—He orders his Son's Execution—Montezuma and the Farmer—Jails—Laws against Theft, Murder, Treason, Kidnapping, Drunkenness, Witchcraft, Adultery, Incest, Sodomy, Fornication, and other Crimes—Story
47 minute read
CHAPTER XV. NAHUA ARTS AND MANUFACTURES.
CHAPTER XV. NAHUA ARTS AND MANUFACTURES.
Metals Used and Manner of Obtaining Them—Working of Gold and Silver—Wonderful Skill in Imitating—Gilding and Plating—Working in Stone—Lapidary Work—Wood Carving—Manufacture of Pottery—Various Kinds of Cloth—Manufacture of Paper and Leather—Preparation of Dyes and Paints—The Art of Painting—Feather Mosaic Work—Leaf-Mats—Manner of Kindling Fire—Torches—Soap—Council of Arts in Tezcuco—Oratory and Poetry—Nezahualcoyotl's Odes on the Mutability of Life and the Tyrant Tezozomoc—Aztec Arithmetical Syst
39 minute read
CHAPTER XVI. THE AZTEC CALENDAR.
CHAPTER XVI. THE AZTEC CALENDAR.
Astronomical Knowledge of the Aztecs—Contradictions of Authors respecting the Calendar—Value of the Researches of Various Writers—The First Regular Calendar—The Mexican Cycle—The Civil Year—The Aztec Months—Names of the Days and their Signification—The Commencement of the Aztec Year—The Ritual Calendar—Gama's Arrangement of the Months—The Calendar-Stone—The Four Destructions of the World—The Calendar of Michoacan—Reckoning of the Zapotecs. Perhaps the strongest proof of the advanced civilization
19 minute read
CHAPTER XVII. THE AZTEC PICTURE-WRITING.
CHAPTER XVII. THE AZTEC PICTURE-WRITING.
Hieroglyphic Records—The Native Books—Authorities—Destruction of the Native Archives by Zumárraga and his Confrères—Picture-writings used after the Conquest for Confession and Law-Suits—Value of the Records—Documents sent to Spain in the Sixteenth Century—European Collections—Lord Kingsborough's Work—Picture-writings retained in Mexico—Collections of Ixtlilxochitl, Siguënza, Gemelli Careri, Boturini, Veytia, Leon y Gama, Pichardo, Aubin, and the National Museum of Mexico—Process of Hieroglyphic
30 minute read
CHAPTER XVIII. ARCHITECTURE AND DWELLINGS OF THE NAHUAS.
CHAPTER XVIII. ARCHITECTURE AND DWELLINGS OF THE NAHUAS.
Architecture of the Ancient Nations—General Features of Nahua Architecture—The Arch—Exterior and Interior Decorations—Method of Building—Inclined Planes—Scaffolds—The use of the Plummet—Building-Materials—Position and Fortification of Towns—Mexico Tenochtitlan—The Great Causeways—Quarters and Wards of Mexico—The Market-Place—Fountains and Aqueducts—Light-houses and Street-work—City of Tezcuco—Dwellings—Aztec Gardens—Temple of Huitzilopochtli—Temple of Mexico—Other Temples—Teocalli at Cholula and
35 minute read
CHAPTER XIX. MEDICINE AND FUNERAL RITES AMONG THE NAHUAS.
CHAPTER XIX. MEDICINE AND FUNERAL RITES AMONG THE NAHUAS.
Mexican Contributions to Medical Science—The Botanical Gardens—Longevity—Prevalent Diseases—Introduction of Small-pox and Syphilis—Medical Treatment—The Temazcalli—Aboriginal Physicians—The Aztec Faculty—Standard Remedies—Surgery—Superstitious Ceremonies in Healing—Funeral Rites of Aztecs—Cremation—Royal Obsequies—Embalming—The Funeral Pyre—Human Sacrifice—Disposal of the Ashes and Ornaments—Mourners—Funeral Ceremonies of the People—Certain Classes Buried—Rites for the Slain in Battle—Burial amo
45 minute read
CHAPTER XX. GOVERNMENT, SOCIAL CLASSES, PROPERTY, AND LAWS OF THE MAYA NATIONS.
CHAPTER XX. GOVERNMENT, SOCIAL CLASSES, PROPERTY, AND LAWS OF THE MAYA NATIONS.
Introductory Remarks—Votan's Empire—Zamná's Reign—The Royal Families of Yucatan; Cocomes, Tutul Xius, Itzas, and Cheles—Titles and Order of Succession—Classes Of Nobles—The Quiché-Cakchiquel Empire in Guatemala—The Ahau Ahpop and Succession to the Throne—Privileged Classes—Government of the Provinces—The Royal Council—The Chiapanecs—The Pipiles—Nations of Nicaragua—The Maya Priesthood—Plebeian Classes—Slaves—Tenure of Lands—Inheritance of Property—Taxation—Debtors and Creditors—Laws and the Admi
38 minute read
CHAPTER XXI. EDUCATION AND FAMILY MATTERS AMONG THE MAYAS.
CHAPTER XXI. EDUCATION AND FAMILY MATTERS AMONG THE MAYAS.
Education of Youth—Public Schools of Guatemala—Branches of Study in Yucatan—Marrying Age—Degrees of Consanguinity allowed in Marriage—Preliminaries of Marriage—Marriage Ceremonies—The Custom of the Droit du Seigneur in Nicaragua—Widows—Monogamy—Concubinage—Divorce—Laws Concerning Adultery—Fornication—Rape—Prostitution—Unnatural Crimes—Desire for Children—Childbirth Ceremonies—Rite of Circumcision—Manner of Naming Children—Baptismal Ceremonies. The Maya nations appear to have been quite as strict
28 minute read
CHAPTER XXII. FEASTS AND AMUSEMENTS OF THE MAYAS.
CHAPTER XXII. FEASTS AND AMUSEMENTS OF THE MAYAS.
Special Observances—Fixed Feasts—Sacrifice of Slaves—Monthly Feasts of the Yucatecs—Renewal of the Idols—Feast of the Chacs—Hunting Festival—The Tuppkak—Feast of the Cacao-Planters—War Feast—The Maya New Year's Day—Feasts of the Hunters, Fishers, and Apiarists—Ceremonies in honor of Cukulcan—Feast of the Month of Mol—Feast of the Years Kan, Muluc, Ix, and Cauac—Yucatec Sacrifices—The Pit of Chichen—Sacrifices of the Pipiles—Feast of Victory—Feasts and Sacrifices in Nicaragua—Banquets—Dances—Musi
38 minute read
CHAPTER XXIII. FOOD, DRESS, COMMERCE, AND WAR CUSTOMS OF THE MAYAS.
CHAPTER XXIII. FOOD, DRESS, COMMERCE, AND WAR CUSTOMS OF THE MAYAS.
Introduction of Agriculture—Quiché Tradition of the Discovery of Maize—Maize Culture—Superstitions of Farmers—Hunting and Fishing—Domestic Animals, Fowl, and Bees—Preservation and Cooking of Food—Meals—Drinks and Drinking-Habits—Cannibalism—Dress of the Mayas—Maxtlis, Mantles, and Sandals—Dress of Kings and Priests—Women's Dress—Hair and Beard—Personal Decoration—Head-Flattening, Perforation, Tattooing, and Painting—Personal Habits—Commerce—Currency—Markets—Superstitions of Travelers—Canoes and
41 minute read
CHAPTER XXIV. MAYA ARTS, CALENDAR, AND HIEROGLYPHICS.
CHAPTER XXIV. MAYA ARTS, CALENDAR, AND HIEROGLYPHICS.
Scarcity of Information—Use of Metals—Gold and Precious Stones—Implements of Stone—Sculpture—Pottery—Manufacture of Cloth—Dyeing—System of Numeration—Maya Calendar in Yucatan—Days, Weeks, Months, and Years—Indictions and Katunes—Perez' System Of Ahau Katunes—Statements of Landa and Cogolludo—Intercalary Days and Years—Days and Months in Guatemala, Chiapas, and Soconusco—Maya Hieroglyphic System—Testimony of Early Writers on the Use of Picture-Writing—Destruction of Documents—Specimens which have
36 minute read
CHAPTER XXV. BUILDINGS, MEDICINE, BURIAL, PHYSICAL PECULIARITIES, AND CHARACTER OF THE MAYAS.
CHAPTER XXV. BUILDINGS, MEDICINE, BURIAL, PHYSICAL PECULIARITIES, AND CHARACTER OF THE MAYAS.
Scanty Information given by the Early Voyagers—Private Houses of the Mayas—Interior Arrangement, Decoration, and Furniture—Maya Cities—Description of Utatlan—Patinamit, the Cakchiquel Capital—Cities of Nicaragua—Maya Roads—Temples at Chichen Itza and Cozumel—Temples of Nicaragua and Guatemala—Diseases of the Mayas—Medicines used—Treatment of the Sick—Propitiatory Offerings and Vows—Superstitions—Dreams—Omens—Witchcraft—Snake-Charmers—Funeral Rites and Ceremonies—Physical peculiarities—Character.
26 minute read
THE NATIVE RACES. Vol. III. MYTHS AND LANGUAGES.
THE NATIVE RACES. Vol. III. MYTHS AND LANGUAGES.
SAN FRANCISCO: A. L. BANCROFT & COMPANY, PUBLISHERS. 1883. Entered according to Act of Congress in the Year 1882, by HUBERT H. BANCROFT, In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. All Rights Reserved....
14 minute read
CHAPTER I. SPEECH AND SPECULATION.
CHAPTER I. SPEECH AND SPECULATION.
Difference between Man and Brutes—Mind Language and Soul-Language—Origin of Language: A Gift of the Creator, a Human Invention, or an Evolution—Nature and Value of Myth—Origin of Myth: The Divine Idea, A Fiction of Sorcery, The Creation of a Designing Priesthood—Origin of Worship, of Prayer, of Sacrifice—Fetichism and the Origin of Animal-Worship—Religion and Mythology. Hitherto we have beheld Man only in his material organism; as a wild though intellectual animal. We have watched the intercours
2 hour read
CHAPTER II. ORIGIN AND END OF THINGS.
CHAPTER II. ORIGIN AND END OF THINGS.
Quiché Creation-Myth — Aztec Origin-Myths — The Papagos — Montezuma and the Coyote — The Moquis — The Great Spider's Web of the Pimas — Navajo and Pueblo Creations — Origin of Clear Lake and Lake Tahoe — Chareya of the Cahrocs — Mount Shasta, the Wigwam of the Great Spirit — Idaho Springs and Water Falls — How Differences in Language Occurred — Yehl, the Creator of the Thlinkeets — The Raven and the Dog. THE POPOL VUH. Of all American peoples the Quichés, of Guatemala, have left us the richest m
36 minute read
CHAPTER III. PHYSICAL MYTHS.
CHAPTER III. PHYSICAL MYTHS.
Sun, Moon, and Stars—Eclipses—The Moon Personified in the Land of the Crescent—Fire—How the Coyote Stole Fire for the Cahrocs—How the Frog Lost His Tail—How the Coyote Stole Fire for the Navajos—Wind and Thunder—The Four Winds and the Cross—Water, the First of Elemental Things—Its Sacred and Cleansing Power—Earth and Sky—Earthquakes and Volcanoes—Mountains—How the Hawk and Crow Built the Coast Range—The Mountains of Yosemite. Fetichism seems to be the physical philosophy of man in his most primi
27 minute read
CHAPTER IV. ANIMAL MYTHOLOGY.
CHAPTER IV. ANIMAL MYTHOLOGY.
Rôles Assigned to Animals — Auguries from their Movements — The Ill-omened Owl — Tutelary Animals — Metamorphosed Men — The Ogress-Squirrel of Vancouver Island — Monkeys and Beavers — Fallen Men — The Sacred Animals — Prominence of the Bird — An Emblem of the Wind — The Serpent, an Emblem of the Lightning — Not Specially connected With Evil — The Serpent of the Pueblos — The Water-Snake — Ophiolatry — Prominence of the Dog, or the Coyote — Generally though not always a Benevolent Power — How the
18 minute read
CHAPTER V. GODS, SUPERNATURAL BEINGS, AND WORSHIP.
CHAPTER V. GODS, SUPERNATURAL BEINGS, AND WORSHIP.
Eskimo Witchcraft—The Tinneh and the Koniagas—Kugans of the Aleuts—The Thlinkeets, the Haidahs, and the Nootkas—Paradise Lost of the Okanagans—The Salish, the Clallams, the Chinooks, the Cayuses, the Walla Wallas, and the Nez Percés—Shoshone Ghouls—Northern California—The Sun at Monterey—Ouiot and Chinigchinich—Antagonistic Gods of Lower California—Comanches, Apaches, and Navajos—Montezuma of the Pueblos—Moquis and Mojaves—Primeval Race of Northern California. We now come to the broadest, whethe
58 minute read
CHAPTER VI. GODS, SUPERNATURAL BEINGS, AND WORSHIP.
CHAPTER VI. GODS, SUPERNATURAL BEINGS, AND WORSHIP.
Gods and Religious Rites of Chihuahua, Sonora, Durango, and Sinaloa—The Mexican Religion, received with different degrees of credulity by different classes of the people—Opinions of different Writers as to its Nature—Monotheism of Nezahualcoyotl—Present condition of the Study of Mexican Mythology—Tezcatlipoca—Prayers to Him in time of Pestilence, of War, for those in Authority—Prayer used by an Absolving Priest—Genuineness of the foregoing Prayers — Character and Works of Sahagun. From the Puebl
2 hour read
CHAPTER VII. GODS, SUPERNATURAL BEINGS, AND WORSHIP.
CHAPTER VII. GODS, SUPERNATURAL BEINGS, AND WORSHIP.
Image of Tezcatlipoca—His Seats at the Street-corners—Various Legends about his Life on Earth—Quetzalcoatl—His Dexterity in the Mechanical Arts—His Religious Observances—The Wealth and Nimbleness of his Adherents—Expulsion from Tulla of Quetzalcoatl by Tezcatlipoca and Huitzilopochtli—The Magic Draught—Huemac, or Vemac, King of the Toltecs, and the Misfortunes brought upon him and his people by Tezcatlipoca in various disguises—Quetzalcoatl in Cholula—Differing Accounts of the Birth and Life of
23 minute read
CHAPTER VIII. GODS, SUPERNATURAL BEINGS, AND WORSHIP.
CHAPTER VIII. GODS, SUPERNATURAL BEINGS, AND WORSHIP.
Various accounts of the Birth, Origin, and Derivation of the name of the Mexican War God, Huitzilopochtli, of his Temple, Image, Ceremonial, Festivals, and his deputy, or page, Paynal — Clavigero — Boturini — Acosta — Solis — Sahagun — Herrera — Torquemada — J. G. Müller's Summary of the Huitzilopochtli Myths, their Origin, Relation, and Signification — Tylor — Codex Vaticanus — Tlaloc, God of Water, especially of Rain, and of Mountains — Clavigero, Gama, and Ixtlilxochitl—Prayer in the time of
2 hour read
CHAPTER IX. GODS, SUPERNATURAL BEINGS, AND WORSHIP.
CHAPTER IX. GODS, SUPERNATURAL BEINGS, AND WORSHIP.
The Mother or all-nourishing Goddess under various names and in various aspects — Her Feast in the Eleventh Aztec month Ochpaniztli — Festivals of the Eighth month, Hueytecuilhuitl, and of the Fourth, Hueytozoztli — The deification of women that died in child-birth — The Goddess of Water under various names and in various aspects — Ceremonies of the Baptism or lustration of children — The Goddess of Love, her various names and aspects — Rites of confession and absolution — The God of fire and hi
52 minute read
CHAPTER X. GODS, SUPERNATURAL BEINGS, AND WORSHIP.
CHAPTER X. GODS, SUPERNATURAL BEINGS, AND WORSHIP.
Revenues of the Mexican Temples — Vast number of the Priests — Mexican Sacerdotal System — Priestesses — The Orders of Tlamaxcacayotl and Telpochtiliztli — Religious Devotees — Baptism — Circumcision — Communion — Fasts and Penance — Blood-drawing — Human Sacrifices — The Gods of the Tarascos — Priests and Temple Service of Michoacan — Worship in Jalisco and Oajaca — Votan and Quetzalcoatl — Travels of Votan — The Apostle Wixepecocha — Cave near Xustlahuaca — The Princess Pinopiaa — Worship of C
38 minute read
CHAPTER XI. GODS, SUPERNATURAL BEINGS, AND WORSHIP.
CHAPTER XI. GODS, SUPERNATURAL BEINGS, AND WORSHIP.
Maya Pantheon — Zamná — Cukulcan — The Gods of Yucatan — The Symbol of the Cross in America — Human Sacrifices in Yucatan — Priests of Yucatan — Guatemalan Pantheon — Tepeu and Hurakan — Avilix and Hacavitz — The Heroes of the Sacred Book — Quiché Gods — Worship of the Choles, Manches, Itzas, Lacandones, and others — Tradition of Comizahual — Fasts — Priests of Guatemala — Gods, Worship, and Priests of Nicaragua — Worship on the Mosquito Coast — Gods and Worship of the Isthmians — Phallic Worshi
2 hour read
CHAPTER XII. FUTURE STATE.
CHAPTER XII. FUTURE STATE.
Aboriginal Ideas of Future — General Conceptions of Soul — Future State of the Aleuts, Chepewyans, Natives at Milbank Sound, and Okanagans — Happy Land of the Salish and Chinooks — Conceptions Of Heaven and Hell of the Nez Percés, Flatheads, and Haidahs — The Realms of Quawteaht and Chayher — Beliefs of the Songhies, Clallams, and Pend d'Oreilles — The Future State of the Californian and Nevada Tribes, Comanches, Pueblos, Navajos, Apaches, Moquis, Maricopas, Yumas, and others — The Sun House of
11 minute read
CHAPTER I. GENERAL REMARKS.
CHAPTER I. GENERAL REMARKS.
Native Languages in Advance of Social Customs — Characteristic Individuality of American Tongues — Frequent Occurrence of Long Words — Reduplications, Frequentatives, and Duals — Intertribal Languages — Gesture-Language — Slavé and Chinook Jargons — Pacific States Languages — The Tinneh, Aztec, and Maya Tongues — The Larger Families Inland — Language as a Test of Origin — Similarities in Unrelated Languages — Plan of this Investigation. In nothing, perhaps, do the Native Races of the Pacific Sta
17 minute read
CHAPTER II. HYPERBOREAN LANGUAGES.
CHAPTER II. HYPERBOREAN LANGUAGES.
Distinction Between Eskimo and American—Eskimo Pronunciation and Declension—Dialects of the Koniagas and Aleuts—Language of the Thlinkeets—Hypothetical Affinities—The Tinneh Family and its Dialects—Eastern, Western, Central, and Southern Divisions—Chepewyan Declension—Oratorical Display in the Speech of the Kutchins—Dialects of the Atnahs and Ugalenzes Compared—Specimen of the Koltshane Tongue—Tacully Gutturals—Hoopah Vocabulary—Apache Dialects—Lipan Lord's Prayer—Navajo Words—Comparative Vocabu
33 minute read
CHAPTER III. COLUMBIAN LANGUAGES.
CHAPTER III. COLUMBIAN LANGUAGES.
The Haidah, its Construction and Conjugation — The Nass Language and its Dialects — Bellacoola and Chimsyan Comparisons — The Nootka Languages of Vancouver Island — Nanaimo Ten Commandments and Lord's Prayer — Aztec Analogies — Fraser and Thompson River Languages — The Neetlakapamuck Grammar and Lord's Prayer — Sound Languages — The Salish Family — Flathead Grammar and Lord's Prayer — The Kootenai — The Sahaptin Family — Nez Percé Grammar — Yakima Lord's Prayer — Sahaptin State and Slave Languag
42 minute read
CHAPTER IV. CALIFORNIAN LANGUAGES.
CHAPTER IV. CALIFORNIAN LANGUAGES.
Multiplicity of Tongues — Yakon, Klamath, and Palaik Comparisons — Pitt River and Wintoon Vocabularies — Weeyot, Wishosk, Weitspek, and Ehnek Comparisons — Languages of Humboldt Bay — Potter Valley, Russian and Eel River Languages — Pomo Languages — Gallinomero Grammar — Trans-Pacific Comparisons — Chocuyem Lord's Prayer — Languages of the Sacramento, San Joaquin, Napa and Sonoma Valleys — The Olhone and other Languages of San Francisco Bay — Runsien and Eslene of Monterey — Santa Clara Lord's P
28 minute read
CHAPTER V. SHOSHONE LANGUAGES.
CHAPTER V. SHOSHONE LANGUAGES.
Aztec-Sonora Connections with the Shoshone Family—The Utah, Comanche, Moqui, Kizh, Netela, Kechi, Cahuillo, and Chemehuevi—Eastern and Western Shoshone, or Wihinasht—The Bannack and Digger, or Shoshokee—The Utah and its Dialects—The Goshute, Washoe, Paiulee, Piute, Sampitche, and Mono—Popular Belief as to the Aztec Element in the North—Grimm's Law—Shoshone, Comanche, and Moqui Comparative Table—Netela Stanza—Kizh Grammar—The Lord's Prayer in two Dialects of the Kizh—Chemehuevi and Cahuillo Gramm
20 minute read
CHAPTER VI. THE PUEBLO, COLORADO RIVER, AND LOWER CALIFORNIA LANGUAGES.
CHAPTER VI. THE PUEBLO, COLORADO RIVER, AND LOWER CALIFORNIA LANGUAGES.
Traces of the Aztec not found among the Pueblos of New Mexico and Arizona—The Five Languages of the Pueblos, the Queres, the Tegua, the Picoris, Jemez, and Zuñi—Pueblo Comparative Vocabulary—The Yuma and its Dialects, the Maricopa, Cuchan, Mojave, Diegeño, Yampais, and Yavipais—The Cochimí, Guaicurí, and Pericú, with their Dialects of Lower California—Guaicurí Grammar—Pater Noster in Three Cochimí Dialects—The Languages of Lower California wholly Isolated. Having already mentioned some of the pr
16 minute read
CHAPTER VII. THE PIMA, ÓPATA, AND CERI LANGUAGES.
CHAPTER VII. THE PIMA, ÓPATA, AND CERI LANGUAGES.
Pima Alto and Bajo—Pápago—Pima Grammar—Formation of Plurals—Personal Pronoun—Conjugation—Classification of Verbs—Adverbs, Prepositions, Conjunctions, and Interjections—Syntax of the Pima—Prayers in different Dialects—The Ópata and Eudeve—Eudeve Grammar—Conjugation of Active and Passive Verbs—Lord's Prayer—Ópata Grammar—Declension—Possessive Pronoun—Conjugation—Ceri Language with its Dialects, Guaymi and Tepoca—Ceri Vocabulary. PIMA GRAMMAR. From the Rio Gila southward, in Sonora and in certain p
15 minute read
CHAPTER VIII. NORTH MEXICAN LANGUAGES.
CHAPTER VIII. NORTH MEXICAN LANGUAGES.
The Cahita and its Dialects—Cahita Grammar—Dialectic Differences of the Mayo, Yaqui, and Tehueco—Comparative Vocabulary—Cahita Lord's Prayer—The Tarahumara and its Dialects—The Tarahumara Grammar—Tarahumara Lord's Prayer in two Dialects—The Concho, The Toboso, The Julime, The Piro, The Suma, The Chinarra, The Tubar, The Irritila—Tejano—Tejano Grammar—Specimen of the Tejano—The Tepehuana—Tepehuana Grammar and Lord's Prayer—Acaxée and its Dialects, The Topia, Sabaibo, and Xixime—The Zacatec, Cazca
24 minute read
CHAPTER IX. THE AZTEC AND OTOMÍ LANGUAGES.
CHAPTER IX. THE AZTEC AND OTOMÍ LANGUAGES.
Nahua or Aztec, Chichimec, and Toltec languages identical—Anáhuac the aboriginal seat of the Aztec Tongue—The Aztec the oldest language in Anáhuac—Beauty and Richness of the Aztec—Testimony of the Missionaries and early writers in its favor—Specimen From Paredes' Manual—Grammar of the Aztec Language—Aztec Lord's Prayer—The Otomí a Monosyllabic Language of Anáhuac—Relationship claimed with the Chinese and Cherokee—Otomí Grammar—Otomí Lord's Prayer in different Dialects. The Nahua, Aztec, or Mexic
27 minute read
CHAPTER X. LANGUAGES OF CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN MEXICO.
CHAPTER X. LANGUAGES OF CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN MEXICO.
The Pame and its Dialects — The Meco of Guanajuato and the Sierra Gorda — The Tarasco of Michoacan and its Grammar — The Matlaltzinca and its Grammar — The Ocuiltec — The Miztec and its Dialects — Miztec Grammar — The Amusgo, Chocho, Mazatec, Cuicatec, Chatino, Tlapanec, Chinantec, and Popoluca — The Zapotec and its Grammar — The Mije — Mije Grammar and Lord's Prayer — The Huave of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec — Huave Numerals. North-eastward of the Otomí, is a language called the Pame, spoken in
26 minute read
CHAPTER XI. THE MAYA-QUICHÉ LANGUAGES.
CHAPTER XI. THE MAYA-QUICHÉ LANGUAGES.
The Maya-Quiché, the Languages of the Civilized Nations of Central America — Enumeration of the Members of this Family — Hypothetical Analogies with Languages of the Old World — Lord's Prayers in the Chañabal, Chiapanec, Chol, Tzendal, Zoque, and Zotzil — Pokonchi Grammar — The Mame or Zaklopahkap — Quiché Grammar — Cakchiquel Lord's Prayer — Maya Grammar — Totonac Grammar — Totonac Dialects — Huastec Grammar. The languages of the civilized nations of Central America, being all more or less affi
29 minute read
CHAPTER XII. LANGUAGES OF HONDURAS, NICARAGUA, COSTA RICA, AND THE ISTHMUS OF DARIEN.
CHAPTER XII. LANGUAGES OF HONDURAS, NICARAGUA, COSTA RICA, AND THE ISTHMUS OF DARIEN.
The Carib an Imported Language — The Mosquito Language — The Poya, Towka, Seco, Valiente, Rama, Cookra, Woolwa, and other Languages in Honduras — The Chontal — Mosquito Grammar — Love Song in the Mosquito Language — Comparative Vocabulary of Honduras Tongues — The Coribici, Chorotega, Chontal and Orotiña in Nicaragua — Grammar of the Orotiña or Nagradan — Comparison between the Orotiña and Chorotega — The Chiriquí, Guatuso, Tiribi, and others in Costa Rica — Talamanca Vocabulary — Diversity of S
5 minute read
THE NATIVE RACES. Vol. IV. ANTIQUITIES.
THE NATIVE RACES. Vol. IV. ANTIQUITIES.
SAN FRANCISCO: A. L. BANCROFT & COMPANY, PUBLISHERS. 1883. Entered according to Act of Congress in the Year 1882, by HUBERT H. BANCROFT. In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. All Rights Reserved....
13 minute read
CHAPTER I. ARCHÆOLOGICAL INTRODUCTION.
CHAPTER I. ARCHÆOLOGICAL INTRODUCTION.
Monumental Archæology — Scope of the Volume — Treatment of the Subject — Sources of Information — Tangibility of Material Relics — Vagueness of Traditional and Written Archæology — Value of Monumental Relics, as conveying Positive Information respecting their Builders, as Corroborative or Corrective Witnesses, as Incentives to Research — Counterfeit Antiquities — Egyptian, Assyrian, and Persian monuments — Relics proving the Antiquity of Man — Exploration of American Ruins — Key to Central Ameri
19 minute read
CHAPTER II. ANTIQUITIES OF THE ISTHMUS, COSTA RICA, MOSQUITO COAST, AND NICARAGUA.
CHAPTER II. ANTIQUITIES OF THE ISTHMUS, COSTA RICA, MOSQUITO COAST, AND NICARAGUA.
The Isthmus—Roman Coin and Galley—Huacas of Chiriquí—Incised Stone-carvings—Sculptured Columns—Human Remains—Golden Ornaments—Weapons—Implements—Pottery—Musical Instruments—Costa Rica—Stone Hammers—Ancient Plantations—Images of Gold—Terra Cottas—Axe of Quartz—Wonderful Hill—Paved Road—Stone Frog—Mosquito Coast—Granite Vases—Remarkable Reports—Animal Group—Rock-Paintings—Golden Figure—Home of the Sukia—Nicaragua—Authorities—Mounds—Sepulchres—Excavations—Weapons—Implements—Ornaments—Statues—Idols—
16 minute read
CHAPTER III. ANTIQUITIES OF SALVADOR AND HONDURAS. RUINS OF COPAN.
CHAPTER III. ANTIQUITIES OF SALVADOR AND HONDURAS. RUINS OF COPAN.
Salvador—Opico Remains—Mounds of Jiboa—Relics of Lake Guijar—Honduras—Guanaja—Wall—Stone Chairs—Roatan—Pottery—Olancho Relics—Mounds of Agalta and Abajo—Hacienda of Labranza—Comayagua—Stone Dog-idol—Terraced Mounds of Calamulla—Tumuli on Rio Chiquinquare—Earthen Vases of Yarumela—Fortified Plateau of Tenampua—Pyramids, Enclosures, and Excavations—Stone Walls—Parallel Mounds—Cliff-Carvings at Aramacina—Copan—History and Bibliography—Palacio, Fuentes, Galindo, Stephens, Daly, Ellery, Hardcastle, B
34 minute read
CHAPTER IV. ANTIQUITIES OF GUATEMALA AND BELIZE.
CHAPTER IV. ANTIQUITIES OF GUATEMALA AND BELIZE.
The State of Guatemala—a Land of Mystery—Wonderful Reports—Discoveries Comparatively Unimportant—Ruins of Quirigua—History and Bibliography—Pyramid, Altars, and Statues—Comparison with Copan—Pyramid of Chapulco—Relics at Chinamita—Temples of Micla—Cinaca-Mecallo—Cave of Peñol—Cyclopean Débris at Carrizal—Copper Medals at Guatemala—Esquimatha—Fortification of Mixco—Pancacoya Columns—Cave of Santa María—Mammoth Bones at Petapa—Rosario Aqueduct—Ruins of Patinamit, or Tecpan Guatemala—Quezaltenango,
41 minute read
CHAPTER V. ANTIQUITIES OF YUCATAN.
CHAPTER V. ANTIQUITIES OF YUCATAN.
Yucatan, the Country and the People—Abundance of Ruined Cities—Antiquarian Exploration of the State—Central Group—Uxmal—History and Bibliography—Waldeck, Stephens, Catherwood, Norman, Friederichsthal, and Charnay—Casa del Gobernador, Las Monjas, El Adivino, Pyramid, and Gymnasium—Kabah, Nohpat, Labná, and nineteen other Ruined Cities—Eastern Group; Chichen Itza and vicinity—Northern Group; Mayapan, Mérida, and Izamal—Southern Group; Labphak, Iturbide, and Macoba—Eastern Coast; Tuloom and Cozumel
40 minute read
CHAPTER VI. ANTIQUITIES OF TABASCO AND CHIAPAS, RUINS OF PALENQUE.
CHAPTER VI. ANTIQUITIES OF TABASCO AND CHIAPAS, RUINS OF PALENQUE.
Geographical Limits—Physical Geography—No Relics in Tabasco—Ruins of Palenque—Exploration and Bibliography—Name; Nachan, Culhuacan, Otolum, Xibalba—Extent, Location, and Plan—The Palace—The Pyramidal Structure—Walls, Corridors, and Courts—Stucco Bas-Reliefs—Tower—Interior Buildings—Sculptured Tablet—Subterranean Galleries—Temple of the Three Tablets—Temple of the Beau Relief—Temple of the Cross—Statue—Temple of the Sun—Miscellaneous Ruins and Relics—Ruins of Ococingo—Winged Globe—Wooden Lintel—T
40 minute read
CHAPTER VII. ANTIQUITIES OF OAJACA AND GUERRERO.
CHAPTER VII. ANTIQUITIES OF OAJACA AND GUERRERO.
Nahua Antiquities—Home of the Zapotecs and Miztecs—Remains in Tehuantepec—Fortified Hill of Guiengola—Petapa, Magdalena, and Laollaga—Bridge at Chihuitlan—Cross of Guatulco—Tutepec—City of Oajaca and Vicinity—Tlacolula—Etla—Peñoles—Quilapan—Ruins of Monte Alban—Relics at Zachila—Cuilapa—Palaces of Mitla—Mosaic Work—Stone Columns—Subterranean Galleries—Pyramids—Fortifications—Comparison with Central American Ruins—Northern Monuments—Quiotepec—Cerro de las Juntas—Tuxtepec—Huahuapan—Yanguitlan—Anti
28 minute read
CHAPTER VIII. ANTIQUITIES OF VERA CRUZ.
CHAPTER VIII. ANTIQUITIES OF VERA CRUZ.
Physical Features of the State—Exploration and Reports—Caxapa and Tuxtla—Negro Head—Relics from Island of Sacrificios—Eastern Slope Remains—Medelin—Xicalanco—Rio Blanco—Amatlan—Orizava—Cempoala—Puente Nacional—Paso de Ovejas—Huatusco—Fortifications and Pyramids of Centla—El Castillo—Fortress of Tlacotepec—Palmillas—Zacuapan—Inscription at Atliaca—Consoquitla Fort and Tomb—Calcahualco—Ruins of Misantla or Monte Real—District of Jalancingo—Pyramid of Papantla—Mapilca—Pyramid and Fountain at Tusapa
43 minute read
CHAPTER IX. ANTIQUITIES OF THE CENTRAL PLATEAUX.
CHAPTER IX. ANTIQUITIES OF THE CENTRAL PLATEAUX.
Anáhuac—Monuments of Puebla—Chila, Teopantepec, Tepexe, Tepeaca, San Antonio, Quauhquelchula, and Santa Catalina—Pyramid of Cholula—Sierra de Malinche—San Pablo—Natividad—Monuments of Tlascala—Los Reyes—Monuments of Mexico—Cuernavaca, Xochicalco, Casasano, Ozumba, Tlachialco, Ahuehuepa, and Mecamecan—Xochimilco, Tlahuac, Xico, Misquique, Tlalmanalco, and Culhuacan—Chapultepec, Remedios, Tacuba, and Malinalco—City of Mexico—Tezcuco—Tezcocingo—Teotihuacan—Obsidian Mines—Tula—Monuments of Querétaro
13 minute read
CHAPTER X. ANTIQUITIES OF THE NORTHERN MEXICAN STATES.
CHAPTER X. ANTIQUITIES OF THE NORTHERN MEXICAN STATES.
The Home of the Chichimecs—Michoacan—Tzintzuntzan, Lake Patzcuaro, Teremendo—Aniche and Jiquilpan—Colima—Armería and Cuyutlan—Jalisco—Tonala, Guadalajara, Chacala, Sayula, Tepatitlan, Zapotlan, Nayarit, Tepic, Santiago Ixcuintla, and Bolaños—Guanajuato—San Gregorio and Santa Catarina—Zacatecas—La Quemada and Teul—Tamaulipas—Encarnacion, Santa Barbara, Carmelote, Topila, Tampico, and Burrita—Nuevo Leon and Texas—Coahuila—Bolson de Mapimi, San Martero—Durango—Zape, San Agustin, and La Breña—Sinalo
24 minute read
CHAPTER XI. ANTIQUITIES OF ARIZONA AND NEW MEXICO.
CHAPTER XI. ANTIQUITIES OF ARIZONA AND NEW MEXICO.
Area enclosed by the Gila, Rio Grande del Norte, and Colorado—A Land of Mystery—Wonderful Reports and Adventures of Missionaries, Soldiers, Hunters, Miners, and Pioneers—Exploration—Railroad Surveys—Classification of Remains—Monuments of the Gila Valley—Boulder-Inscriptions—The Casa Grande of Arizona—Early Accounts and Modern Exploration—Adobe Buildings—View and Plans—Miscellaneous remains, Acequias, and Pottery—Other Ruins on the Gila—Valley of the Rio Salado—Rio Verde—Pueblo Creek—Upper Gila—T
43 minute read
CHAPTER XII. ANTIQUITIES OF THE NORTHWEST.
CHAPTER XII. ANTIQUITIES OF THE NORTHWEST.
General Character of North-western Remains—No Traces of Extinct or of Civilized Races—Antiquities of California—Stone Implements—Newspaper Reports—Taylor's Work—Colorado Desert—Trail and Rock-Inscriptions—Burial Relics of Southern California—Bones of Giants—Mounds in the Saticoy Valley—New Almaden Mine—Pre-Historic Relics in the Mining Shafts—Stone Implements, Human Bones, and Remains of Extinct Animal Species—Voy's Work—San Joaquin Relics—Merced Mounds—Martinez—Shell Mounds round San Francisco
31 minute read
CHAPTER XIII. WORKS OF THE MOUND-BUILDERS.
CHAPTER XIII. WORKS OF THE MOUND-BUILDERS.
American Monuments beyond the Limits of the Pacific States—Eastern Atlantic States—Remains in the Mississippi Valley—Three Geographical Divisions—Classification of Monuments—Embankments and Ditches—Fortifications—Sacred Enclosures—Mounds—Temple-Mounds, Animal-Mounds, and Conical Mounds—Altar-Mounds, Burial Mounds, and Anomalous Mounds—Contents of the Mounds—Human Remains—Relics of Aboriginal Art—Implements and Ornaments of Metal, Stone, Bone, and Shell—Ancient Copper Mines—Rock-Inscriptions—Anti
54 minute read
CHAPTER XIV. PERUVIAN ANTIQUITIES.
CHAPTER XIV. PERUVIAN ANTIQUITIES.
Two Epochs of Peruvian Civilization—Aboriginal Government, Religion, and Arts—Contrasts—The Huacas—Human Remains—Articles of Metal—Copper Implements—Gold and Silver Vases and Ornaments—Use of Iron unknown—Aboriginal Engineering—Paved Roads—Peruvian Pottery—Ruins of Pachacamac—Mausoleum of Cuelap—Gran-Chimú—Huaca of Misa—Temple of the Sun—Remains on the Island of Titicaca—Chavin de Huanta—Huanuco el Viejo—Cuzco—Monuments of Tiahuanaco—Island of Coati. I conclude with a short chapter on Peruvian a
1 minute read
THE NATIVE RACES. Vol. V. PRIMITIVE HISTORY.
THE NATIVE RACES. Vol. V. PRIMITIVE HISTORY.
SAN FRANCISCO: A. L. BANCROFT & COMPANY, PUBLISHERS. 1883. Entered according to Act of Congress in the Year 1882, by HUBERT H. BANCROFT. In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. All Rights Reserved....
14 minute read
PREFACE TO VOLUME V.
PREFACE TO VOLUME V.
This volume concludes the Native Races of the Pacific States . During the year in which it has been going through the press, I have received letters of encouragement from the most eminent scholars of Europe and America, and flattering commendations from learned societies. None but an author can know the value of such cheering words. This, my first attempt, was made in a new field; the scope of the work was very extensive; the system and machinery by which alone it could be accomplished were untr
1 minute read
CHAPTER I. ON THE ORIGIN OF THE AMERICANS.
CHAPTER I. ON THE ORIGIN OF THE AMERICANS.
Spirit of Inquiry in the Middle Ages—Unity of Origin—Flood Myths—Aboriginal Traditions of Origin—Culture-Heroes—China—Japan—Hindostan—Tartary—The Egyptian Theory—The Phœnicians—Votan's Travels—The Carthaginians—The Hebrew Theory—The Mormon Story—The Visits of the Scandinavians—Celtic Origin—The Welsh—Scotch—Irish—The Greeks and Romans—The Story of Atlantis—the Autochthonic Theory. When it first became known to Europe that a new continent had been discovered, the wise men, philosophers, and espec
45 minute read
CHAPTER II. INTRODUCTORY TO ABORIGINAL HISTORY.
CHAPTER II. INTRODUCTORY TO ABORIGINAL HISTORY.
Origin and Earliest History of the Americans Unrecorded—The Dark Sea of Antiquity—Boundary between Myth and History—Primitive Annals of America compared with those of the Old World—Authorities and Historical Material—Traditional Annals and their Value—Hieroglyphic Records of the Mayas and Nahuas—Spanish Writers—The Conquerors—The Missionaries—The Historians—Converted Native Chroniclers—Secondary Authorities—Ethnology—Arts, Institutions, and Beliefs—Languages—Material Monuments of Antiquity—Use o
29 minute read
CHAPTER III. THE PRE-TOLTEC PERIOD OF ABORIGINAL HISTORY.
CHAPTER III. THE PRE-TOLTEC PERIOD OF ABORIGINAL HISTORY.
Subdivision of the Subject—Tzendal Tradition of the Votanic Empire—Votan's Book and its Contents as reported by Nuñez de la Vega, Cabrera, and Ordoñez—Testimony of Manners and Customs, Religion, Languages, and Monuments of the Civilized Nations respecting the Primitive Maya Peoples—The Quiché Record, or Popol Vuh—Civilizing Efforts of Gucumatz and his Followers—Exploits of Hunahpu and Xbalanque—Conquest of Xibalba—Migration from Tulan Zuiva, the Seven Caves—Meaning of the Quiché Tradition—Nahua
36 minute read
CHAPTER IV. THE TOLTEC PERIOD.
CHAPTER IV. THE TOLTEC PERIOD.
The Nahua Occupation of Mexico in the Sixth and Seventh Centuries—Condition of Anáhuac—The Mixcohuas and Chichimec Culhuas—The Toltecs at Tulancingo and Tollan—Establishment of a Monarchy and Choice of a King, 710-720 A.D.—Kingdoms of Culhuacan and Quauhtitlan—The Teoamoxtli—Prophecies and Death of Hueman—Birth of Quetzalcoatl—Foundation of the Empire, 856 A.D.—Alliance between Culhuacan, Otompan, and Tollan—Reign of Topiltzin Ceacatl Quetzalcoatl at Tollan—Excesses of Huemac II., or Tecpancaltz
32 minute read
CHAPTER V. THE CHICHIMEC PERIOD.
CHAPTER V. THE CHICHIMEC PERIOD.
The Chichimecs in Amaquemecan—Migration to Anáhuac under Xolotl—The Invaders at Chocoyan and Tollan—Foundation of Xoloc and Tenayocan—Xolotl II., Emperor of the Chichimecs—Division of Territory—The Toltecs at Culhuacan—Rule of Xiuhtemoc and Nauhyotl III.—Pochotl, Son of Acxitl—Conquest of Culhuacan—Death of Nauhyotl—Huetzin, King of Culhuacan—Migration and Reception of the Nahuatlaca Tribes—The Acolhuas at Coatlichan and the Tepanecs at Azcapuzalco—Nonohualcatl, King of Culhuacan—Revolt of Yacan
6 minute read
CHAPTER VI. THE CHICHIMEC PERIOD.—CONTINUED.
CHAPTER VI. THE CHICHIMEC PERIOD.—CONTINUED.
Migration of the Aztecs—Nations of Anáhuac at Beginning of the Thirteenth Century—The Aztecs submit to the Tepanecs—Reign of the Emperor Tlotzin—Quinantzin, King of Tezcuco and Chichimec Emperor—Transfer of the Capital—Tenancacaltzin usurps the Imperial Throne at Tenayocan—The Usurper defeated by Tepanecs and Mexicans—Acolnahuacatl proclaimed Emperor—Quinantzin's Victories—Battle at Poyauhtlan—Quinantzin again Emperor—Toltec Institutions at Tezcuco—Events at Culhuacan—Mexicans driven from Chapul
43 minute read
CHAPTER VII. THE CHICHIMEC PERIOD.—CONCLUDED.
CHAPTER VII. THE CHICHIMEC PERIOD.—CONCLUDED.
Aztec History—Reigns of Acamapichtli II. and Quaquauhpitzahuac—Rebuilding of Culhuacan—Huitzilihuitl II., King of Mexico—Tlacateotzin, King of Tlatelulco—Chimalpopoca Succeeds in Mexico—Funeral of Techotl—Ixtlilxochitl, Emperor of the Chichimecs—Symptoms of Discontent—Plans of Tezozomoc, the Tepanec King—Secret council of Rebels—Religious Toleration in Tezcuco—Conquest of Xaltocan and Cuitlahuac—Birth of Nezahualcoyotl—War between Tezcuco and Azcapuzalco—Victories of Ixtlilxochitl—Siege and Fall
50 minute read
CHAPTER VIII. THE AZTEC PERIOD.
CHAPTER VIII. THE AZTEC PERIOD.
Outline of the Period—Revolt of Coyuhuacan—Nezahualcoyotl on the Throne of Tezcuco—Conquest of Quauhtitlan, Tultitlan, Xochimilco, and Cuitlahuac—Conquest of Quauhtitlan—Destruction of the Records—Death of Itzcoatl and Accession of Montezuma I.—New Temples at Mexico—Defeat of the Chalcas—Troubles with Tlatelulco—Conquest of Cohuixco and Mazatlan—Flood and Six Years' Famine—Conquest of Miztecapan—The Aztecs Conquer the Province of Cuetlachtlan and reach the Gulf Coast—Final Defeat of the Chalcas—
12 minute read
CHAPTER IX. THE AZTEC PERIOD—CONCLUDED.
CHAPTER IX. THE AZTEC PERIOD—CONCLUDED.
Reign of Tizoc—Nezahualpilli defeats the Huexotzincas—Ahuitzotl, King of Mexico—Campaigns for Captives—Dedication of Huitzilopochtli's Temple—Seventy Thousand Victims—Totoquihuatzin II., King of Tlacopan—Mexican Conquests—Conquest of Totonacapan—Aztec Reverses—Successful Revolt of Tehuantepec and Zapotecapan—Conquest of Zacatollan—Anecdotes of Nezahualpilli—New Aqueduct, and Inundation of Mexico—Montezuma II. on the Throne—Condition of the Empire—Montezuma's Policy—Unsuccessful Invasion of Tlasc
26 minute read
CHAPTER X. HISTORY OF THE EASTERN PLATEAU, MICHOACAN, AND OAJACA.
CHAPTER X. HISTORY OF THE EASTERN PLATEAU, MICHOACAN, AND OAJACA.
Early History of the Eastern Plateau—The Chichimec-Toltecs—Arrival of the Teo-Chichimecs in Anáhuac—They Conquer and Settle the Eastern Plateau—Civil Wars—Miscellaneous Events—Wars between Tlascala and the Nations of Anáhuac—Early History of Michoacan—Wars between Wanacaces and Tarascos—Founding of Tzintzuntzan—Metamorphosis of the Tarasco Princes—Encroachments of the Wanacaces—The King of the Isles—Murder of Pawacume and Wapeani—Reigns of Curatame, Tariacuri, Tangaxoan I., Ziziz Pandacuare, Zwa
42 minute read
CHAPTER XI. THE QUICHÉ-CAKCHIQUEL EMPIRE IN GUATEMALA.
CHAPTER XI. THE QUICHÉ-CAKCHIQUEL EMPIRE IN GUATEMALA.
No Chronology in the South—Outline View—Authorities—Xbalanque at Utatlan—The Migration from Tulan—Balam-Quitzé and his Companions—Sacrifices to Tohil—the Quichés on Mt Hacavitz—The Tamub and Ilocab—First Victories—Qocavib Founds the Monarchy at Izmachi—the Toltec Theory—Imaginary Empire of the East—Different Versions of Primitive History—The Cakchiquel Migration—Juarros and Fuentes—Lists of Kings—Cakchiquels under Hacavitz—Reigns of Balam-Conache, Cotuha, and Iztayul, at Izmachi—War against the
53 minute read
CHAPTER XII. MISCELLANEOUS TRIBES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
CHAPTER XII. MISCELLANEOUS TRIBES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.
Scarcity of Historical Data—The Tribes of Chiapas—The Founders and Heroes of the Chiapanec Nation—Wars with the Aztecs—The People of the Southern Coast—They are vanquished by the Olmecs—Their Exodus and Journey—They settle and separate—Juarros' Account of the Origin and later History of the Pipiles—Pipile Traditions—The Founding of Mictlan—Queen Comizahual—Acxitl's Empire of the East—The Cholutecs—Various Tribes of Nicaragua—Settlements on the Isthmus. It is my purpose to relate in this chapter
14 minute read
CHAPTER XIII. HISTORY OF THE MAYAS IN YUCATAN.
CHAPTER XIII. HISTORY OF THE MAYAS IN YUCATAN.
Aboriginal Names of Yucatan—The Primitive Inhabitants from the East and West—Zamná, the Pontiff-King—The Itzas at Chichen—Rule of Cukulcan at Chichen and Mayapan—His Disappearance on the Gulf Coast—The Cocome Rule at Mayapan—Appearance of the Tutul Xius—Translation of the Maya Record by Perez and Brasseur—Migration from Tulan—Conquest of Bacalar and Chichen—Itza Annals—Tutul Xius at Uxmal—Overthrow of the Cocome Dynasty—The Confederacy, or Empire, of Tutul Xius, Itzas, and Cheles—Fable of the Dw
19 minute read