Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Mound-Builders were prehistoric Native American cultures that constructed earthen mounds for various purposes such as burial sites, ceremonial platforms, and residential areas.
Related terms
Cahokia: Cahokia was a major ancient city of the Mississippian culture, known for its large earthen mounds in present-day Illinois.
Serpent Mound: Serpent Mound is an effigy mound shaped like a serpent located in Ohio. It is one of the most famous examples of mound-building cultures.
Effigy Mounds: Effigy mounds are earthworks shaped like animals or other figures created by Native American cultures. They served various purposes such as burial sites or ceremonial grounds.