The Impact and Coping Strategies of Native Americans Losing Their Lands to European Settlers

As we examine the modern landscape of the United States, it is astonishing to realize the extent to which Native American communities have been diminished. On any given street, neighborhood, or state, how many first nation Native American villages, communities, and peoples can we count? How many tribes can you name? There are numerous tribes like the Cherokee, Apache, Iroquois, Pawnee, Shawnee, Sioux, Cheyenne, and many more. Yet, how many do you know?

How do you feel knowing that the genetic code of the first peoples is rapidly fading? You, as a descendant of European settlers, contributed to this situation. If you had stayed on your foreign land, we might not have faced such a crisis.

The Introduction of Lethal Diseases

Native Americans lacked immunity to several lethal diseases prevalent in Eurasia. After the first contact, death rates as high as 90% were not uncommon. These diseases wrought havoc across Native American lands. Consider the impact of diseases such as influenza, chickenpox, tuberculosis, syphilis, gonorrhea, AIDS, and others spread by European settlers. The invasion of these diseases had devastating effects on the health and population of Native American communities.

Leadership and Diplomacy

The leadership of first nation tribes was instrumental in negotiating alliances with both other Native American nations and competing European powers. This diplomatic maneuvering was essential for survival during the early years of contact. However, once dominance shifted to the Spanish in Mexico and the English in North and Northern North America, this strategy became less effective. The governments of Spain and England each tried to protect Native Americans from invasion by their own frontiersmen, but these efforts were often insufficient.

The Cumulative Impact of Wars and Settlements

The cumulative impact of repeated wars and the increasing number of European settlers pushing onto Native American lands forced tribes to seek treaty agreements. These treaties often required the relocation of Native American groups from their traditional homelands. Such treaties were often not honored by the US and Mexico, and new, more burdensome obligations were imposed. For instance, the treaties often required Native Americans to cede vast amounts of land, relocate, or accept other harsh conditions.

The Healthcare Challenge

The introduction of new diseases like influenza and pneumonia had a profound impact on Native American populations. Tribes like the Inuit and Eskimos, who previously had no exposure to these diseases, suddenly found themselves dealing with a wide range of illnesses. The harsh climate of Alaska and the Arctic did not protect these communities from the spread of European diseases.

Modern Day Reflections

Historical injustices continue to leave impacts on contemporary Native American communities. Health disparities, cultural preservation, and land rights remain significant challenges. It is essential to acknowledge and rectify the past to ensure a better future for all.

As we move forward, it is crucial to understand the legacy of these events and work towards reconciliation and understanding between different cultural populations. Learning about and teaching these histories can foster a more compassionate and equitable society.

Conclusion

The legacy of Native American displacement and the introduction of diseases left a profound and lasting impact on the continent. Future generations can learn from this history to foster greater respect and understanding.