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Pre-1880s:
Pow wows were sacred gatherings for Indigenous communities Ceremonies included dancing, singing, and spiritual practices Each nation had distinct traditions and protocols -
Period: to
1880s-1951:
Indian Act banned traditional ceremonies including pow wows Communities held secret gatherings to preserve traditions Some traditions were lost during this period of suppression -
Period: to
1951-1970s:
Ban on Indigenous ceremonies lifted Pow wows began to reemerge publicly Inter-tribal pow wows started becoming more common Veterans' influence added new elements like Grand Entry -
Period: to
1970s-1990s:
Rise of competitive pow wow circuits Introduction of new dance categories Pow wows became more accessible to non-Indigenous people Integration of modern elements while maintaining traditions -
2000s-Present:
Growing recognition of pow wows' cultural significance Use of social media to promote and share events Virtual pow wows during COVID-19 pandemic Focus on teaching younger generations