Essay about Peyote and Native American Culture - 1763 Words

Peyote and Native American Culture Peyote was originally described in 1560, however it was not until the middle of the nineteenth century that botanists were able to conduct field research and correctly classify the cactus (Anderson, 1980). Field studies have concluded that there are two distinct populations of peyote which represent two species. The first and most common, Lophophora williamsii extends from southern Texas reaching south to the Mexican state of San Luis Potosi. The second and least common of the two species is Lophophora difusa, which occurs in the dryer terrain of the Mexican state of Queretaro. This species differs from the more common species by, being yellowish-green rather than blue green in color, by lacking any†¦show more content†¦Also it should be noted that depending on the tribe or group leader, elements of Christianity figure prominently through the ceremony (www. peyote. net). The majority of the peyotism practiced in the United States can be identified with the Native American Ch urch (NAC). There are many divisions of the NAC, and each chapter is composed of several auxiliary chapters or moons, Each chapter has officers who are trained to carry out the various tasks associated with the peyote ceremony. The most prominent position is that of Road Chief who is responsible for governing the main elements of the meeting as well as leading the participants down The Peyote Road or the way of learning to live life well (www.peyote.net), There are other offices held in the ceremony such as Cedar Man, Fire Man, Drum Man, and Earth Mother, and while many chapters have their own variances of the ceremony, many share common ceremonial elements along with the adherence to the practice of avoiding alcohol, devotion to family, and general moral living (www.peyote.net). The ritualistic practice of peyote and shamanism, are commonly linked, however in the case of the Mescalero Apache Tribe the use of peyote in shaman rites had anything but a transcendental effect which eventually lead to the abolishment of peyote from shamanistic ceremony. A lack of harmonyShow MoreRelatedThe Decline Of The Native American Indians1607 Words   |  7 PagesPrior to the European invasion, the Native American Indians inhabited both North and South America, most of them living in areas beyond the reach of railroads and well-traveled highways. The Europeans and Native Americans met episodically through war, resulting in a clash of culture and social integration. Interestingly, during times of geographical expansion, the American government usually had their greatest interest in the Indians. 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