American Indians

[nohorn]

Where did indians, or how did any indian tribe deal with latrines, or such facilities. I have never read, any explanations. Just wondering. What about other nomadic tribes?

[wildwood]

No takers so far, so I'll have a go. I presume they used the bush, maybe dug a small hole, and used leafs to wipe. One uncle of mine who served in Indonesia in the 40-50s told of how the villages had a fallen tree stump to squad on so they voided over the back which ran into a river. Many tropical rivers that border high density communities are highly polluted but the locals seem to be mostly immune to the many pathogens - the same ones that would make a western visitor very sick.

btw The bidet, where the moslems squad upon is said the be the best way to use a toilet. This position ensures that the colon is completely emptied, rather than the western sitting position which is not ideal to completely empty the gut and is thought to contribute to colon cancer.

I think we'll have dinner late tonight. lol

[nohorn]

Hi Wildwood; thanks for the answer. I remember growing up in the rocky mountains, somehow I discovered that many cabins along the mountain streams, had the sewer pipe emptying out into the stream. I don't know if that is still happening. It certainly grossed me out.

[Vagrant]

The lack of latrines is the reason that tribes are nomadic - they stay somewhere until it's unbearable because they're knee deep in excrement, then they move on ...

[redman41]

Good Answer Vagrant !! ha ha

[Clanad]

Having lived near and worked with the Northern Cheyenne "Tsi-Tsi-Tas") tribe here in the western U.S., your question has played an important part in archeological investigation into the Plains Indian's life habits.
Here's how:
Although nomadic in existence, the moving of the small bands (usually matriarically family related) throughout most of the year as well as coming together into large gatherings , especially at 'Sun Dance', was governed primarily by the availability of game animals, most notably " hotowa'e" or buffalo ("ta Tanka" in Sioux language). But, either in smaller groups or larger gatherings, many of the individual's daily habits were under strict rules and one or more of the Warrior Societies (such as 'Hotamétaneo'o' or Dog Soldiers) would patrol the village assuring the 'citizens' adherence to the rules. Latrines were established and were quite a distance from the village and segregated as to men and women. Breaking of such rules would invite severe punishment, including whip-lashings.

Archaeological digs are eager to find these sites since they provide a lot of information as to the life styles and dietary habits of the tribal and band members...

[nohorn]

Thank you clanan. I thought you would post. Very interesting answer, I had no idea they policed with dog soldiers.