Coyote Creates People

In the days when the world was new, the Great Spirit called a council of animals to decide how the coming 'Man' should look. Grizzly Bear insisted Man should have immense strength and sharp claws. Buck argued for swift legs and keen ears to hear the wind. Mountain Lion demanded sharp teeth and a long tail for balance. As the animals argued, Coyote listened, secretly mocking their vanity. When night fell, each animal began modeling their version of Man from clay. Coyote, ever the trickster, encouraged them to work harder and faster until they were overcome with exhaustion. One by one, the animals fell into a deep sleep. Coyote stayed awake, destroying their clumsy models under the moonlight. He took a little of the bear’s stature, the deer’s speed, and the lion’s wit, but he gave Man his own clever voice and the ability to walk upright on two legs. By dawn, the first human stood finished. When the council awoke, they found a creature that possessed a piece of everyone, yet belonged to none of them but Coyote.

“Man shall have a voice like mine, for I am the wisest of all.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the moral of Coyote Creates People?

The story teaches that balance and cleverness are essential qualities. It suggests that humanity is a mixture of many different animal traits, refined by the wit of the trickster.

Which animals were part of the creation council?

The council included the Grizzly Bear, the Buck, the Mountain Lion, and the Beaver, among others. Each animal wanted the first human to look exactly like themselves.

Why is Coyote considered a trickster in this story?

Coyote uses his wits to outlast the other animals, waiting for them to fall asleep so he can destroy their work. This highlights his role as a transformer who brings change through cunning.

What material was used to create the first humans?

In this legend, the animals use clay from the earth to model their versions of Man. This reflects a common mythological theme of life originating from the ground.

Which Native American tribes tell this story?

Versions of this legend are common among Western tribes, particularly the Pomo people of California. Coyote is a central figure in the mythology of many Indigenous cultures across North America.

How did Coyote outsmart the other animals?

He encouraged them to keep working on their clay models until they were too tired to stay awake. Once they slept, he took the best parts of their designs to create the final human.