Men:
1. Hunting and Fishing: Men were primarily responsible for hunting game such as deer, elk, and rabbits, as well as fishing in the ocean and coastal waters for fish, shellfish, and marine mammals like seals and sea lions.
2. Tool Making: Men crafted various tools and weapons used for hunting, fishing, woodworking, and other practical tasks. They made tools from materials such as stone, wood, bone, and shell.
3. Trading: Men engaged in trade with other tribes, exchanging resources and goods such as obsidian, soapstone, and shell beads for desired items like food, tools, and materials.
4. Building: Men constructed shelters and dwellings using natural materials like wood, bark, and thatch. They also built canoes and other watercraft for fishing and transportation.
5. Leadership: In some Chumash communities, men served as leaders or chiefs who made decisions, settled disputes, and organized communal activities.
Women:
1. Gathering: Women played a vital role in gathering plant foods such as acorns, seeds, berries, fruits, and roots. They also collected edible seaweed, shellfish, and other marine resources.
2. Food Processing: Women were responsible for processing the food gathered by men. This involved tasks like grinding acorns into flour, preparing meals, preserving food through drying or smoking, and making beverages.
3. Childcare and Domestic Work: Women took care of children, managed households, and maintained shelters. They also made clothing and other necessary items from materials like animal hides and plant fibers.
4. Pottery and Basketry: Women specialized in creating pottery, such as cooking vessels and storage jars, as well as intricate baskets for various purposes. Their art often featured geometric patterns and designs that held symbolic meanings.
5. Medicine: Some women had specialized knowledge of medicinal plants and herbs and served as healers within the community.
It's important to note that these roles were not strictly defined, and there were variations among different Chumash communities. Individuals could possess multiple skills and participate in various activities, and both men and women contributed to the overall well-being of the tribe.