Most cultures have unique dating and courtship rituals that are strictly follow, and the native Americans were no different in this. Native American dating was much different than we can even imagine. The culture at one time was much different than most people are familiar with. One of the main rituals that were involved in Native American dating was known as the Crane Dance. This dance was often when the women would dress up in bright clothing all decorated for the dance. This was the point when men could get a good look at the available women since the dance usually lasted for a couple days.

As the Crane dance went on usually a young man would see a woman that did strike his fancy. Unlike our current dating customs, the native American dating customs required that the young man speak to his mother who then would speak to the mother of the girl he was interested in. After the mothers have been spoken to the young man is told he is allowed to come to the lodge. Usually he waits until everyone is sleeping and he makes a light and finds the girl he wants. Waking her up he then uses the light to illuminate his own face so she can see who he is. If she is happy with him she is to blow out his light and the next day he will be a part of the family.

The Native American dating customs get a bit more complicated if the girl does not choose to blow out the light. If she does not blow it out then he will try to woo her more the next day. This part of the Native American dating custom is usually done with a special flute called a Courting flute. The young man will play his flute until the woman he wants comes out to see him. Usually he will again go to her that night with his light in hopes that she will blow it out and accept him.

While these Native American dating customs are very different they have a unique appeal to them. The family becomes more involved in the choice of a mate although the woman is given a choice. This is a beautiful courting ritual which was used by many native Americans in time past in pursuit of a happy marriage.

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