In the rituals, ceremonies, and spiritual observances of indigenous peoples that live in what is known as America, tobacco is the unifying thread of communication between humans and the spiritual powers. The manidog (spirits) are said to be extremely fond of tobacco. The only way they could get it was from the indigenous peoples, either by smoke from a pipe or by offerings of dry tobacco. According to tradition, the indigenous peoples received tobacco as a gift from Wenebojo who had taken it from a mountain giant and then given the seed to his brothers. Source: Milwaukee Public Museum Website