The Native American Tomahawk: Iconic Weapon and Cultural Artifact

We've seen tomahawks in cartoons and in many western movies, but what exactly is this iconic weapon and why are they the weapons of choice for Native Americans? A glance throughout history will provide a brief understanding about the Native American tomahawk and its importance in their society.

One of the most prevailing and memorable items used in combat is the tomahawk as seen in many western movies. They look as though they do not have much use in today's modern age, however, the tomahawk is used as a decorative and conversation piece, providing hours of intellectual analysis. 

Native American tomahawks are an iconic weapon used by the Native Americans for warfare. North American tribes have been the prominent users of this item. Coming from an Algonquian word, the name of this important Indian weapon became tomahawk. The first tomahawks were more primitive in nature being made of a stone head and wooden handle secured with leather. 

The tomahawk could also have been made with the wooden handle secured in a bored hole on the stone. When the Europeans infiltrated the New World, there were other kinds of tomahawks made. Just as the hatchet we know of today, they were made of metal. They were also known as trade tomahawks. 

Hand to hand combat was the initial use of the tomahawk. In addition, it was used as both a mid or long range weapon to be thrown at the attacking enemy. The tomahawk was also used for ceremonial purposes just as many other pieces of artifacts. It was a custom for the tomahawk to be placed on the ground during important council meetings. When a leader took the tomahawk from the ground, it meant war will commence and it was approved. If the tomahawk was buried, then it meant that the warfare had ended. The well known phrase, "bury the hatchet," came from this. 

Aside from its social and historical context, the allure of the tomahawk today rests upon the ornate and impeccable detailing on the handles as well as on the base of the stone weapon. Artists today craft tomahawks with ornate details and natural coverings made of leather and fur. The result is a beautiful piece of art which could be used as wall decor. 

For those who want to add to their historical pieces of cultural Indian artifacts, these very unique Native American tomahawks have become a great item. Today, Native Americans use tomahawks as gifts, giving them to a person of importance during important tribal meetings. 

See our entire gallery of Native American Tomahawks here.