Native Words, Native Warriors

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Gail Junion-Metz -- School Library Journal, 11/11/2009 8:11:00 AM

www.nmai.si.edu/education/codetalkers/

I rarely find a Web site that fits in so perfectly. “Native Words, Native Warriors” addresses both Veteran’s Day and Native American Heritage Month, chronicling the fascinating story of the “code talkers.” The codes were made up of words from various Native American languages and were used to send secret battle communications.

To learn about how Native languages were used in developing the code, click on the “Native Language” link at the top of the screen. “Boarding Schools” describes how Native children were often forced to attend government- or church-operated boarding schools where they were prohibited from speaking their own languages. Ironically, the government that wouldn’t allow children to speak their Native languages in school found those languages to be critical when they became soldiers. “Code Talking” explains how the code was developed and includes soldiers' stories. “Coming Home,” “Survival,” and “Recognition” chronicles what happened to Native American soldiers after the wars and how their efforts on behalf of our country were finally recognized.

Take a look at the excellent list of resources, both print and Web-based, and the great lesson ideas for teachers.