Why did native Americans build storehouses?

Native Americans built storehouses primarily to store agricultural surplus. This practice was critical for ensuring that they had enough food to sustain themselves through periods of scarcity, such as winter or dry seasons when crops were not being harvested. Storehouses allowed them to keep grains, seeds, and other harvested products safe from environmental conditions and pests.

The construction of these storehouses reflects the understanding and importance of agriculture within various Native American societies, which transitioned from a nomadic lifestyle to a more settled way of life that included farming. This shift allowed for greater food security and the development of more complex social structures, as communities could sustain larger populations.

While tools, weapons, and livestock were important aspects of daily life, they did not necessitate the same specialized storage solutions that agricultural surplus did. Tools and weapons were often kept in easily accessible places, while livestock required different forms of care and management rather than being stored in buildings like storehouses. Living quarters served a different function altogether, focusing on shelter rather than the storage of resources. Thus, building storehouses specifically for agricultural surplus highlights the agricultural advancements and planning strategies adopted by Native American communities.