Bighorn sheep and the Salish world view| A cultural approach to the landscape

This thesis addresses the question of what caused the decline of the bighorn sheep in Western Montana, specifically in the Bitterroot Valley?Dr.Charles E. Kay, Utah State University has presented a hypothesis that American Indians decimated all big game animals within their territories.Local inhabitants of the area believe that the Indians were one of the main causes of the decline in bighorn sheep numbers, which supports Dr. Kay's hypothesis.I plan to test Dr. Kay's hypothesis of aboriginal overkill by applying it to a specific tribe (Salish), a specific species of animal (bighorn sheep) and a specific area (Bitterroot Valley).To help find an answer to this question, the Salish world view, which determined how Salish Indians hunted and regarded bighorn sheep will be explored.The Salish bighorn sheep legend (cultural truth) will be examined for its presentation of hunting rules, and for these rules' affect on bighorn sheep populations in Montana.Theoretically, this thesis examines how cultural realities are constructed and how the world-view, ideology, and cultural reality of a people can be studied through the legends which influence and restrict their actions.A multi-discipline approach will be taken including anthropology. Native American studies, and wildlife biology (bighorn sheep studies).The factors involved in this study are the environment, people and culture.This study focuses on the bighorn sheep and the Salish world-view.more goal of my life journey is realized. As I contemplate this portion of my journey I realize how blessed I have been along the way.Each person who has come into my life and walked with me for however short or long, has truly added aepth and meaning to my life. Special thanks to the members of my thesis committee; D i r Katherine Weist (chairperson),