Who Are the Pima Indians?
The Pima Indians are a group of Native Americans living in Arizona and parts of Mexico. Before 1694, they referred to themselves as Otama. The name Pima is thought to have derived from communication problems between Europeans and members of the Otama tribe. The term pi ‘ani mac or pi mac means, “I don’t know”, which is said to be what the Indians replied repeatedly to Europeans, while trying to communicate. Early history described eight tribes located along the Gila River. Often referred to as the O’Odham, these groups lived on its banks and considered its waters holy. Tribal traditions, activities, and celebrations were centered on river life. The O’Odham also settled on banks of the Salt River, Yaqui River, and Sonora River.
