What do historians primarily rely on to understand the lives of early inhabitants in Oklahoma?

Historians primarily rely on artifacts and rubbish to understand the lives of early inhabitants in Oklahoma because these physical materials provide tangible evidence of past human activity. Artifacts include items such as tools, pottery, and remains of structures that demonstrate how people lived, what they used in their daily lives, and their cultural practices. Rubbish, or discarded materials, can also give insights into dietary practices, social structures, and trade relationships by revealing what people chose to throw away, which reflects their lifestyle and values.

This reliance on physical evidence is critical, as it allows historians to piece together a more accurate picture of past societies. Artifacts and rubbish often serve as the most direct link to individuals' day-to-day experiences, providing context that written records might overlook or omit, especially given that early inhabitants in Oklahoma may not have left behind extensive written documentation. Thus, the study of these materials offers a foundational understanding of the region's history.