Question

Lacrosse was played by the native americans for what purpose?

Answer 1

Native Americans played lacrosse for these purposes:

• for physical training
• to settle disputes
• for healing as a part of spiritual beliefs
• for recreation

Further details:

The game was seen as a way of training and toughening young warriors, giving them strength and agility needed for battle.

It was also seen as a pre-battle sort of activity or even something done instead of actual battle.  A game of lacrosse might be used as a way of settling a dispute instead of going to battle.

The game was also seen as medicine game, something meant to heal.  It was thought to be a game giving by the earth's creator, and playing it was a way of honoring the creator.

Lacrosse also could be seen as something done for the sake of recreation.