Practice

Early European explorers often thought that Native American women were treated as servants, as they had to work so much harder than European women did. The Europeans had different values from the Sioux. Use evidence from “The Signs of Corn” to challenge that European idea. Write a paragraph that tells about the value of women in Sioux culture. Write your paragraph on a sheet of paper.

Sample

In Sioux culture, women hold a sacred and respected position. Contrary to the European belief that Native American women were treated as servants, evidence from "The Signs of Corn" highlights the immense value placed on women in Sioux society. The text describes how women are the ones entrusted with the important responsibility of cultivating and tending to the valuable corn crops. This shows that women are not only capable of hard work but are also entrusted with vital duties that are essential for the survival of the community. Additionally, the text mentions how women have the knowledge and power to make decisions regarding the harvest, further proving their influential role within Sioux culture. Therefore, the notion that Native American women were treated as mere servants is a misconception, as they are highly valued and respected members of their society.