essay

Peyote religion among the Navajo

handbook of north american indians. southwest10 • Published In 1983 • Pages: 558-569

By: Aberle, David Friend.

Abstract
This article focuses on the growth of the Native American Church among the Navajo. Three fundamental issues are addressed: the spread of Peyotism from other tribes through the Navajo population, possible reasons for its success, and its role as a source of conflict within Navajo society and with state governments and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The author concludes that Peyotism was a response to political and economic subjugation exacerbated by government efforts in the 1930s to reduce sheep herds. Further, despite its previous importance as a divisive element in Navajo society, the Native American Church has grown to function as a cohesive force for community integration and cultural conservatism.
Subjects
Organized ceremonial
Congregations
Religious denominations
Acculturation and culture contact
culture
Navajo
HRAF PubDate
2004
Region
North America
Sub Region
Southwest and Basin
Document Type
essay
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Richard A. Wagner ; John Beierle ; 1985
Field Date
no date
Coverage Date
1880-1974
Coverage Place
southwestern United States
Notes
David F. Aberle
For bibliographical references see 197: Brugge (p. 780-839)
LCCN
77017162
LCSH
Navajo Indians