The Lenape Indians, also known as the Delaware Indians, lived in what is now New Jersey, the shores of the Delaware River in Pennsylvania, the northern shores of Delaware and the lower Hudson Valley in New York. They were a hunting and gathering society which caused them to move around to follow the animals. But for the most part they inhabited the area near the Delaware River and relied on small game such as fish and deer. The Lenape Indians were widely known as peacemakers. They often served to settle disputes between rival tribes. Although, they were also known as fierce fighters when they had to fight, they preferred to choose a path of peace with other tribes and early Europeans. The early settlers finally pushed them out of their home land and they settled in the Midwest of the United States.
This website provides useful resources, lesson plans, activities, and websites for teaching about the Lenape Indians of New Jersey.
Trenton Public School Standards
6.4.4. A.1 Discuss how families long ago expressed and transmitted their beliefs and values through oral tradition, literature, songs, and celebrations.
Students will be able to:
- Explain how beliefs and values are passed down in families through oral tradition, literature, songs and celebrations.
6.4.4. A.4 Discuss the history of their community, including the origins of its name, groups and individuals who lived there, and access to important places and buildings in the community.
Students will be able to:
- Gather information about where they live, its history and who lived there
- Visit important and historical places in the community where they live
6.4.4.B.1 Compare the major early culture of the Lenape that existed in the region that became New Jersey prior to contact with the Europeans.
Students will be able to:
- Describe the early life of the Lenape Native American culture.
- Describe what life was like for the Lenape prior to the Europeans.
- Describe New Jersey prior to the European settlers.
