Historical Impacts of Geothermal Resources on the People of North America

Abstract

The Indians of North America considered hot springs as a sacred place where the "Great Spirit" lived, and thus were great believers in the miraculous healing powers of the heat and mineral waters. These areas were also known as neutral ground; where warriors could travel to and rest unmolested by other tribes. Even though archeological finds date Native American presence at hot springs for over 10,000years, there is no recorded history prior to the arrival of the Europeans in the Many legends concerning geothermal activities are part of the Native American history, such as about Madame Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanic fire, and the story of the battle between Skell and Llao describing the eruptions of Mt. Mazama (Crater Lake) and Shasta. Obsidian was one of the prized volcanic trading items used by the Indians for tools and weapons.