Indians in the Curriculum:
20 Handouts for Middle and High School
History and Social Studies
By Kerry Dunne

Handout 12 Activities: Choctaw Stick Ball

Background:

Photo of a stick ball game, the Choctaw version of lacrosse in Mississippi, ca. 1900. Marquette University Libraries, Bureau of Catholic Indian Missions Records, Negative 0335. The Iroquois and others played lacrosse in various forms throughout much of Eastern North America with games including over 1,000 players and lasting for days.

Study and Discuss:

1.     What game are they playing?

2.     How is this different from today's official version of lacrosse?

3.     Are these Choctaw men wearing traditional clothing? Why not?

4.     Do they look like they are enjoying themselves?

5.     Why do you think lacrosse has become so popular among non-Indians?

Resources 12: Choctaw Stick Ball