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CultureLanguageThe Wendat spoke what we call an Iroquoian language. There were many Iroquoian languages. Other Native peoples also spoke an Iroquoian language: Five Nations Iroquois, the Neutral Nation, the Tobacco Nation, the Wenro and the Erie. ReligionFeasts were an important part of the Wendat religion. Feasts involved dancing and special rituals, and often contests or games. The Wendat had special healers called shamans who used visions and dreams to figure out how to cure different illnesses, predict the future or control the weather. They often used herbal medicines to cure the sick. Both men and women could be shamans, and they were highly respected in the community. The Wendat participated each mid-winter in dream interpretation. They believed that dreams were very important, and could tell the future. Dreams could even cause illness if not dealt with properly. The Wendat believed that things inside of us are sometimes expressed in our dreams. They would play a game of charades and have someone act out their dreams. This would help the people interpret what the dream meant. The Wendat believed that by acting out their dreams, they would remain healthy in mind, body and spirit.
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