Member-only story

The Taking and Displaying of Human Body Parts as Trophies by Amerindians

Harold Powell

·18k Followers· Follow

Published in The Taking And Displaying Of Human Body Parts As Trophies By Amerindians (Interdisciplinary Contributions To Archaeology)

7 min read · 1 month before

809 View Claps

74 Respond

Save

Listen

The practice of taking and displaying human body parts as trophies is a widespread phenomenon that has been documented in many cultures around the world. Among the Amerindians, this practice was particularly common, and it played a significant role in their warfare and ritual practices.

The Taking and Displaying of Human Body Parts as Trophies by Amerindians (Interdisciplinary Contributions to Archaeology)

by David H. Dye

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13169 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	697 pages

This book explores the history, culture, and psychology of the taking and displaying of human body parts as trophies by Amerindians. It examines the various factors that contributed to this practice, including the need for vengeance, the desire for power, and the belief in the supernatural. The book also discusses the impact of this practice on both the victors and the vanquished, and the ethical implications of collecting and displaying human remains.

Historical Background

The practice of taking and displaying human body parts as trophies by Amerindians has a long and complex history. It is believed to have originated in the pre-Columbian era, and it was widespread among many different tribes and nations.

There are a number of reasons why Amerindians took and displayed human body parts as trophies. One reason was vengeance. When a warrior was killed in battle, his family and friends would often seek revenge by taking the body parts of his killer. These body parts would then be displayed as a warning to others not to mess with them.

Another reason why Amerindians took and displayed human body parts as trophies was power. The possession of human body parts was seen as a sign of strength and power. Warriors who had taken many body parts were often held in high esteem by their people.

Finally, some Amerindians believed that taking and displaying human body parts as trophies had supernatural powers. They believed that the spirits of the dead would reside in these body parts, and that they could be used to protect the owner from harm.

Cultural Context

The practice of taking and displaying human body parts as trophies by Amerindians was closely tied to their cultural beliefs and values. For many Amerindians, warfare was a sacred activity, and the taking of trophies was seen as a way to honor the gods and ensure victory.

In addition, many Amerindians believed that the human body was a sacred object. They believed that the body was the dwelling place of the soul, and that it should be treated with respect. However, they also believed that the body could be used as a source of power, and that the taking of body parts could give the owner control over the spirit of the dead person.

Psychological Factors

There are a number of psychological factors that contributed to the practice of taking and displaying human body parts as trophies by Amerindians. One factor was the need for vengeance. When a warrior was killed in battle, his family and friends would often feel a deep sense of anger and loss. They would often seek revenge by taking the body parts of his killer. This act of vengeance would help them to feel better about their loss, and it would also serve as a warning to others not to mess with them.

Another psychological factor that contributed to the practice of taking and displaying human body parts as trophies was the desire for power. The possession of human body parts was seen as a sign of strength and power. Warriors who had taken many body parts were often held in high esteem by their people. They were seen as being brave and fearless, and they were often given positions of leadership.

Impact on the Victors and the Vanquished

The practice of taking and displaying human body parts as trophies had a significant impact on both the victors and the vanquished. For the victors, it was a way to celebrate their victory and to honor the gods. It also served as a warning to others not to mess with them.

For the vanquished, it was a humiliating and degrading experience. It was a reminder of their defeat, and it served as a constant reminder of the loss of their loved ones. In some cases, the taking of body parts could lead to the complete annihilation of a tribe or nation.

Ethical Implications

The practice of taking and displaying human body parts as trophies raises a number of ethical questions. One question is whether it is ever justified to take the body parts of another person. Another question is whether it is ever appropriate to display human body parts in a public setting.

There are no easy answers to these questions. However, it is important to consider the ethical implications of this practice before engaging in it. It is also important to respect the dignity of the dead, and to treat their remains with respect.

The practice of taking and displaying human body parts as trophies by Amerindians is a complex and controversial issue. It is a practice that has been documented in many cultures around the world, and it has had a significant impact on both the victors and the vanquished.

This book has explored the history, culture, psychology, and ethical implications of this practice. It has provided a comprehensive overview of this topic, and it has raised a number of important questions. It is hoped that this book will help to shed light on this complex issue, and that it will encourage further research on this topic.

A Human Skull With A Hole In The Top, Used As A Trophy By Amerindians The Taking And Displaying Of Human Body Parts As Trophies By Amerindians (Interdisciplinary Contributions To Archaeology)