Mississippian culture
Definition
The Mississippian culture was a Native American civilization that existed in the Mississippi River Valley from approximately 800 CE to 1600 CE. They were known for their complex societies, large cities, and impressive mound-building.
Analogy
Think of the Mississippian culture like a giant Lego set. Each piece (or person) had its own role and when they all came together, they could build something amazing - like their famous earthwork mounds!
Related terms
Cahokia: This was the largest city of the Mississippian culture, located near modern-day St. Louis. It's often compared to great cities of its time like London.
Earthworks: These are large structures made out of dirt and stone. The Mississippians used them for ceremonial and practical purposes.
Chiefdoms: These were the basic political units of the Mississippian culture - kind of like states in modern America.
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