A History of the World in 100 Objects

North American otter pipe

May 25, 2010
Discover the history of Native American pipe smoking, including its role in ceremonies and religious practices. Explore the burial practices and cultural artifacts of farming communities in middle America, including the discovery of a 2000-year-old otter-shaped tobacco pipe. Learn about the religious and spiritual importance of pipes in a specific culture, their connection to rituals and responsibilities, and their role as spirit guides or totems for the smokers.
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Episode notes
1
Introduction
00:00 • 3min
2
The Otter Pipe: An Ancient Tobacco Pipe from Mound City
02:54 • 4min
3
The Significance and Symbolism of Pipes in a Cultural Context
06:50 • 2min
4
The Cultural Significance of Tobacco Smoking
08:47 • 5min