The Tlingit are a prominent Pacific Northwest indigenous people living in Alaska. Traditionally split into various clans and family groups, their main main source of economy came in the form of fishing and hunting, with wood as their chief material for manufacturing. Russian expansions in the late-18th century brought hostility and war. The Tlingit were defeated, but still remain in Alaska to this day.
Warfare mainly centred around inter tribal disputes and capturing prisoners to use as slaves. Weaponry was diverse, and included bows, spears, daggers, clubs, axes and even muskets. Their elaborate carved wooden helmets were typically reinforced by a wooden collar for neck and face protection. The most common piece of available armour was a vest made of two-ply hide. Some warriors had Chinese coins sewn onto their vests (left), which they acquired thanks to the fur trade. Others wore a cuirass (right) made from wooden rods and slats joined together by sinew or cord. Arm and leg armour could also be worn.
Ibrahim Zamir
Empire of History 