Genocide or Clash of Cultures?

Paper Summary:

This paper examines how facts and documentation all point to the genocide of the American Indians and indigenous culture, as opposed to a mere clash of cultures, and how arguing against this by using facile sociological theories of cultural change and adaptation is simply to mask the reality of history. It looks at how the reality of the genocide of the American Indians is a part of a history that should be examined and exposed, as it provides important lessons in intolerance and understanding. If these historical realities are ignored or transmuted by false theories and perceptions, the danger exists that these tragic events may be condoned and even repeated in other forms and histories in the future.

From the Paper:

"While documented evidence of genocide is a historical fact, some still view the genocide of American Indians simply as a minor, inevitable tension between different cultures, which forms a part of history. Supporting this belief is Vice-President Dick Cheney who is of the opinion that the history of the American Indian is the result of a clash of cultures rather than genocide. Addressing students Cheney told the audience he did not believe the mass extermination of the American Indian population that took place from 1492 until the late 1800s could be considered genocide. It was merely a clash of cultures that occurred for a brief period and was perpetuated by Europeans . (Grim R.) The theory of the clash of cultures implies a fusion and integration of cultures and a more benign sense of social and historical development."

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