American culture differs from British culture largely due to the historical relationship of the European-American with the Native American. Some contributions of the American Indian culture include state names (Tennessee, Massachusetts, Delaware, and Connecticut), city names (Omaha, Yankton, Yakima, and Peorial), political concepts from the League of the Iroquois, canoes, snow shoes, bows and arrows, and moccasins. Yet, in spite of the many reminders that American culture contains a strong Indian element, an examination of published high school literature reveals few representative works from Indian authors. An awareness of Indian literature and heritage for Anglos and exposure to Indian myth and legend are critical components for classroom teachers involved in American literature. Therefore, this essay suggests some of the kinds of works which might be included in the American junior and senior high school curriculum. The works mentioned are those which both Indian and non-Indian students can read in order to understand the important part which the Native American heritage has played in the American culture. These works can be developed into units or elective courses, or they can be incorporated into American literature sequences. (Author/NQ)