Delawares is a plural noun that refers to a Native American people known as the Lenape or Lenni Lenape. Originally inhabiting the mid-Atlantic region of the United States, in what is now Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and parts of New York and Maryland, the Delawares are considered one of the oldest indigenous cultures in North America.
The Delawares are a matrilineal society that traditionally lived in small villages, with agriculture and hunting as their primary means of subsistence. They were skilled farmers, cultivating corn, beans, and squash, and also relied on fishing and gathering wild food. Known for their craftsmanship, the Delawares produced intricate pottery, beadwork, and woven textiles.
In the 17th century, the Delawares had significant interactions with European settlers, including the Dutch, Swedes, and English. They established peaceful trade relationships and maintained some autonomy even as European colonization continued to impact their land and way of life. However, conflicts erupted as European settlers encroached on Delaware territories, leading to territorial losses and displacement for the Delawares.
Today, while the Delawares maintain their distinct cultural identity, they are scattered across different locations in the United States, with many residing in Oklahoma, Kansas, Wisconsin, and Ontario, Canada. The Delawares have faced historical injustices, but they continue to preserve their cultural heritage and contribute to the rich tapestry of Native American history and traditions.
