As we have seen thus far in this chapter, the beliefs and teachings of indigenous religions of North America are complex and multifaceted.

Just as in other major world religions, these traditions have developed historically and have both resisted and accommodated cultural changes. However, because the region is so diverse, it is difficult to generalize about historical change in this large region. Thus, this section briefly reviews some of the major historical events and empires in North America, and what we know about religion during these periods.

Later in this section, we will look at how Native North American religions have responded to the social and political changes in the modern period. As you read this section, think about how indigenous American religions have adapted and endured despite colonialism, encroaching Christianity, and culture change.