Description
The Caddo originated in the lower Mississippi Valley and spread west along the river systems. Sometime between 700 and 800 they settled the area between the Arkansas River and the middle reaches of the Red, Sabine, Angelina, and Neches rivers and adopted agriculture. They grew corn and pumpkins as primary crops which, later combined with beans and squash, stimulated population growth. The name Caddo derives from a French abbreviation of Kadohadachho (“real chief”). The Caddo people in historic times (after 1535) comprised at least 25 distinct but closely affiliated groups centered at the Great Bend of the Red River and extending into the Piney Woods region.
Language
The Caddoan language family is linguistically related to the Pawnee, Arikara, Wichita, and Kichai languages. Though each band of the Caddo had a distinct dialect, these dialects could generally be understood by all speakers of the Caddo language.
Culture
They lived in “beehive” style houses made of a framework of poles covered with thatched grass. These were generally grouped about an open space where social and ceremonial gatherings would be held. Food was cooked in vessels of pottery and baskets of varying sizes, which were skillfully made. Plant fibers were woven, and the cloth was made into garments. Other clothes were made from animal skins, including the buffalo, for winter use. Besides having the usual ornaments for the arms, neck, and ears, the Caddo often wore nose rings and practiced tattooing. Descent was traced through the mother, and chieftainship was hereditary, as was the custody of certain sacred articles used in religious ceremonies.