The Main Occupation of Eskimos: Life in the Arctic

The Eskimos are a community of Indigenous people that have inhabited the Arctic regions of North America, Greenland, and Siberia for thousands of years. The communities have adapted to the extreme climate, and have developed a unique set of skills to survive in the harsh environment. The main occupation of the Eskimos is subsistence hunting and fishing, which has been a part of their culture for centuries.

Traditional Occupations of Eskimos

In the Arctic, the traditional occupations of the Eskimos include hunting, fishing, and gathering of wild vegetation. Hunting and fishing are the primary source of food for the Eskimos and are usually done by the men. The type of animals hunted and the methods used vary according to the availability of resources in the area. The type of fish and the method of fishing also depend on the local environment. The women often gather wild vegetation such as berries and plants, which are used for food and medicinal purposes.

Hunting and Fishing Techniques

The Eskimos have developed a variety of hunting and fishing techniques over the years. Hunting is typically done with a bow and arrow, harpoon, or rifle. Fishing is done with a variety of methods, such as netting, trolling, jigging, and spearing. The Eskimos also use traditional methods such as ice fishing and ice-trapping to catch fish.

Modern Occupations

In modern times, the Eskimos have adapted to the changing environment and adopted new occupations. Many Eskimos are employed in the tourism, fishing, and oil and gas industries. They also work in construction, transportation, and other industries.

Traditional Arts and Crafts

The Eskimos are also known for their traditional arts and crafts. They create art from natural materials such as stone, bone, ivory, and antler. They also carve masks, create traditional clothing, and weave baskets. These items are often sold to tourists.

The Impact of Climate Change

Climate change is having a major impact on the Eskimos and their traditional way of life. Rising temperatures have caused sea ice to recede, resulting in a decrease in the abundance of fish and other animals that are hunted by the Eskimos. This has led to an increase in poverty and food insecurity in many Eskimo communities.

Conclusion

The main occupation of the Eskimos has traditionally been subsistence hunting and fishing, which has been a part of their culture for centuries. In modern times, the Eskimos have adapted to the changing environment and adopted new occupations. However, climate change has had a major impact on the traditional way of life of the Eskimos. Despite these challenges, the Eskimos continue to persevere and maintain their cultural identity.