a) American Bison

The American Bison was central to the Plains Indians’ lifestyle, providing them with food, clothing, and materials for shelter and tools. This magnificent animal was integral to the culture, economy, and spirituality of many Native American tribes. However, the westward expansion of European settlers dramatically affected the bison populations, leading to near extinction due to mass hunting and habitat loss. This decline had devastating effects on the Plains Indians, disrupting their traditional way of life and contributing to the weakening of their societies in the face of American expansion.