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Native-American Totem Poles, 2006.
A review of the Native-American Indian totem pole and it's importance to the culture of Native-American Indians.
1,582 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews and discusses the role of the totem pole in the lives of Native-American Indians. The paper first provides a brief history of the totem pole from the perspective of the British explorer, Captain James Cook and then goes on to discuss the history of the totem pole in Native-American Indian culture. The paper then explains the process of creating a totem pole, listing the meaning behind the various symbols.
Outline:
Objective
Introduction
Totem Pole Significance
The History of the Totem Pole
Steps to Making a Totem Pole
Totem Pole Symbolism
The Great Seal of the US and the Canadian Coat of Arms
Native-American Indian Oral Tradition
The Haida Totem Pole
Summary and Conclusion
From the Paper
" The Native American Indians did not have a written form of their language and totem pole stories and imagery were shared with the owners of the pole and those who they told. The only meanings which are on record are in cases where the owners of the pole left written record, granted interviews or in cases where the story has been transferred from generation to generation in a story. These stories are referred to as the "oral tradition" which is subject to change and become distorted over time.
According to the website of the Manataka American Indian Council: The Native American Indians placed the totem pole at the front entrance of the family's longhouse for honoring the clan's ancestors, to record the clan's standing, rights and accomplishments, in memoriam of a ceremony or spiritual experience and contains the symbolism of the qualities, experience, and exploits of the family clan. (Manataka American Indian Council, 2006)"
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Native American Stories, 2002.
This paper examines four Native American stories in Gerald Vizenor's anthology "Native American Literature: A Brief Introduction and Anthology".
1,550 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes the four stories assigned for analysis in Gerald Vizenor's anthology "Native American Literature: A Brief Introduction and Anthology". ( "Return to White Earth" by John Rogers, "A Good Chance," by Elizabeth Cook-Lynn, "The Little People" by Maria Campbell and "Someday Soon," by Paula Gunn Allen). The author discusses their common themes, adaptability and the finding of identity. The writer illustrates how the four stories represent a wide variety of writings about a wide variety of Indian peoples, help the reader understand the history of the Native American experience, and to some degree, today's reality of that changed experience.
From the Paper
"The four stories assigned for analysis in Gerald Vizenor's anthology (Native American Literature: A Brief Introduction and Anthology) are each, to begin with, quite different, in terms of the point of view and the tone the authors have set. "Return to White Earth" is a very pure and charming story of the homecoming and coming of age of a Chippewa boy, returning to his native northern Minnesota following a stay at a boarding school in South Dakota. This story, by John Rogers, is as much an education in how Chippewa Indians lived, hunted, worked, interacted, and survived, as it is a story merely about characters and events. Beautifully written, and loaded with similes about the natural world and why Native Americans respect that world, this story is an up-tempo, pleasurable experience to read."
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Native Americans and European Epidemics, 2002.
A study of the effect of European epidemics on the lifestyle of Native Americans.
1,640 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 53.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at the arrival of Europeans on North American shores with respect to the way that it affected the lifestyle of Native Americans. It focuses on the diseases introduced to North America by these Europeans. The paper begins by providing a background to the way of life of the Native Americans before the arrival of the Europeans. It then turns to the arrival of epidemics in North America, responsible for Native Americans suffering higher mortality rates than at any other time in human history. The most common diseases introduced to the "New World" at the time are discussed as are the affect these diseases had on the Native American mortality rate. The paper then turns to the way that the lifestyle of Native Americans was affected by these diseases. It speaks of the weakened ability to resist colonization and the Europeanization of Native American culture. It concludes by proposing the argument that the introduction of these epidemics was not accidental, and that they were intended to weaken the defenses of Native Americans against the colonizers.
From the Paper
"In early America, when people of three continents came together, the Native Americans were dramatically affected by epidemics, suffering higher mortality rates than any other time in human history. (Geier, 1991) People from Latin America, North America and Europe merged, each carrying and introducing diseases indigenous to their own societies.
"When the Native Americans first encountered common European diseases like smallpox, measles and dysentery, millions died. In extreme cases, 90 percent of certain Indian tribes died as European epidemics swept through their villages."
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Native-American and Chinese Culture, 2004.
A comparison of Native American and Chinese culture.
3,175 words (approx. 12.7 pages), 11 sources, MLA, $ 91.95
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Abstract
This paper presents a comparison and contrast of the Native American culture with the Chinese culture. The paper claims that there are several similarities. "Native American" and "Chinese" are all-encompassing descriptive terms of the many different tribes and dynasties of each culture. Both cultures have rich, meaningful customs that are still passed on today, unlike many ethnic groups that have lost some of their culture due to the changing times. The paper contends that Chinese and Native Americans still believe in their own form of mythology. The paper discusses the social, political, and economical aspects of these two cultures.
Outline
I. Introduction
a. Two Richly Historic Societies
II. Social
a. Native-American Creation
b. Birth of Chinese Culture
c. Compare and Contrast
III. Political
a. Native-American Politics
b. Chinese Political Systems
c. Compare and Contrast
IV. Economic
a. Early Native-American Economy
b. The Start of Chinese Economics
c. Compare and Contrast
V. Conclusion
From the Paper
"Throughout their history, Native-Americans have been historic people of change. Food discovered and domesticated by Native-Americans would transform the diet of the incoming settlers and not just the offering that has been made famous as the "First Thanksgiving." Native-Americans also made many important contributions to modern medicine, art, architecture, and ecology. It is not widely taught but during the thousands of years preceding European contact, the Native-American people developed ingenious and creative cultures. They harvested plants for food, dyes, medicines, and textiles. They hunted and domesticated animals. They also established extensive patterns of trade which helped them build cities, "produce monumental architecture, developed intricate systems of religious beliefs; and constructed a wide variety of systems of social and political organization ranging from kin-based bands and tribes to city-states and confederations" (Mintz, 2003)."
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The Native-American Plight, 2007.
A discussion of the history of European dominance and Native-American suppression in the United States.
5,373 words (approx. 21.5 pages), 15 sources, MLA, $ 132.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses how the Native-American population is one of the most marginalized groups in American society. The paper relates that the government has treated the Native-American population as a separate and sovereign nation within the borders of the United States, while at the same time reducing their power and preventing it from thriving even in limited circumstances. The paper points out that any discussion of Native-Americans must recognize the variety of tribes in different parts of the country and the social and cultural elements that link them in opposition to the white society that pushed the Native-American out of one region after another. The paper concludes that the plight of the Native-American remains precarious as their culture is undermined and altered even today.
Outline:
Introduction
Early Period
Pre-Civil War
Twentieth Century
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The Europeans were surprised at the mode of life of the Native Americans even as they saw that lifestyle to be antithetical to their own. For one thing, as shown in writings by the Europeans, they were consistent in their amazement at the personal liberty of the Indians and especially their freedom from rules and social classes based on the ownership of property, forces which governed the lives of the Europeans. This fact points to one difference between Europeans and Native Americans--Europeans "owned" property and saw the land as something to be possessed, while the Native Americans lived with nature and did not try to own it. The Indians used their resources for survival, while the Europeans sought more than this and developed a broad-based trade that depended on exploiting resources, including exploiting them for products they could sell to their home countries. Much of the history of the New World involved a clash between these values, with Europeans pushing the Indians off their land in order to exploit the resources and to assert ownership, as if God had given them the right to do this."
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European Influence on Native American Tribes, 2006.
This paper examines the continuing and devastating impact the Europeans, particularly the English, have had on the Native American people.
1,084 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 37.95
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Abstract
The writer of paper explores the current situation affecting the majority of the once proud Native Americans who now suffer from alcohol and substance abuse as well as declining general health. This paper historically details the life of Native Americans prior to the arrival of the English. The Native Americans lived in relative harmony with their surroundings and as contributing members to the land. This paper examines how the arrival of the English brought with them domination and a disrespect for the harmonious way of life the Native Americans had adopted. This paper discusses the fact that the English introduced alcohol to the Native-Americans. Prior to the introduction of alcohol the natives were seen as fit, athletic and lean people, whereas the people of today are often seen as obese and sickly. The writer contends and explains why alcohol is not the only problem introduced by the Europeans. This paper examines the the cultural genocide that has occurred among the natives who suffer from higher than average death rates, higher tuberculosis rates and a generally poor overall level of health.
From the Paper
"Alcohol abuse is no the only problem introduced by the Europeans; today as a result of the cultural genocide that has occurred among the Native Americans, people living in these communities often suffer from higher than average general death rates, higher infant mortality and childhood death rates, higher tuberculosis rates and a general poor overall level of health regardless of ones age. In addition there is a generally inaccessibility to adequate health care facilities and a tremendous lack of preventive programs for health improvement among the population, all of which can contribute to an increased abuse of alcohol and other addictive substances. Most natives probably content themselves with living an impoverished lifestyle and have to turn to substances to take their mind off of the poor quality of life and healthy they must endure day after day."
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Native American Imagery, 2002.
An exploration of the creation of Native American imagery by nineteenth century artists, Edward Sheriff Curtis and George Catlin.
2,181 words (approx. 8.7 pages), 15 sources, APA, $ 68.95
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Abstract
The "American" public has always had an interest in the lives of Native Americans. During the early 1800, this curiosity blossomed in a fascination. The paper shows that unfortunately, most Americans were content to relegate all Native Americans into this caricature of the "noble savage", dehumanizing them, and few settlers sought to understand the culture of the Natives whose land they were occupying. Fortunately two nineteenth century artists, Edward Sheriff Curtis and George Catlin did not share the same view. This paper discusses how these men dedicated their lives to the study and preservation of Native American tribal culture for posterity by creating imagery based on the Native American people. Although their methodology, content, and style were dissimilar, (Curtis used the camera and Catlin worked with oil paint), their goal was the same, to capture and record the essence of America's indigenous people through art.
From the Paper
"Countless numbers around the globe have benefited from the information gathered during the 1800's by Edward S. Curtis and George Catlin.
Without these records many of the customs and heritage that we know of as "Native American" might be lost today.
It is easy to be critical of Catlin's paintings when judging it against the realism of Curtis' photographs, but the goals of the two men were the same. The sincerity, accuracy, and honesty of the collections that were compiled by the ethnographists transcend their work from the category of mere art to the palate of life."
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Native Americans and Mental Health, 2008.
This paper explores the problem of mental health issues, especially substance abuse, among Native Americans.
1,330 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 11 sources, APA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Native Americans disproportionately have a greater occurrence of mental health and substance use disorders than the population as a whole. The author relates that the U.S. government's policy of expansion, containment and non-sanctioned genocide in the 1880s has manifested itself in the Native-American population as poverty, alienation from mainstream public services and education, increased risk for medical and psychological conditions and a fractured sense of tribal and family cohesiveness. The paper points out that alcohol dependence combined with major depression or post-traumatic stress disorder are the most prevalent co-occurring disorders. The author reports that the evolving standard treatment method for Native-American clients is integrated mental health and addiction services using motivational interviewing, which is especially compatible with Native-American values.
From the Paper
"Because Native Americans have a long, rich cultural heritage strikingly different from the mainstream of America, and because Native America is segmented into hundreds of tribes, many of which with their own unique cultural systems, providing adequate mental health and chemical dependency services in a culturally sensitive manner is difficult. This very issue serves as a barrier to treatment and outcomes, especially for individuals living off reservations where local community support and tribal customs are not present. Even on reservations, community support is inadequate as funding for mental health services through the Indian Health Services entitlement is woefully under-funded."
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Native-American Family Culture, 2007.
This paper explores Native-American culture, focusing on family life.
1,840 words (approx. 7.4 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 59.95
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Abstract
In this article the writer presents an examination of family life with a focus on the Native-American community. The writer explores child rearing, parenting, moral training, infant care and other aspects of the Native-American culture and presents it in a cohesive fashion. The writer notes that the Native-American population continues to blend its foundation with American life to create a situation in which they can live cohesively while not forgetting who they are and where they came from. The writer concludes that as Americans become more tolerant of equal genders and get further away from corporal punishment of children the American culture will become more similar to the Native-American culture, and perhaps learn from a people that has maintained their integrity through almost constant assault.
From the Paper
"The concept of family is important in almost every culture in the world. How one raises children, treats children and support children is instrumental in any culture. Native Americans have struggled for many years to maintain their individual culture and tradition in a world that has spent 200 years trying to strip it away. One of the more difficult elements of maintaining that culture has been in the area of family. Family traditions, and Native American culture have clashed with modern America and the result for many has been confusion, depression and anger as children and teenagers rebel against their parent's wishes. While this is common in almost all family cultures the Native American culture also wrestles with prejudice and bias against their ways. Today, many Native Americans are striving to raise their children with respect for modern ways while still maintaining the traditions of their heritage."
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The Acculturation of the Native-American Indian, 2006.
A look at the social and emotional difficulties Native-Americans encounter as a result of their acculturation into American society.
1,432 words (approx. 5.7 pages), 10 sources, APA, $ 47.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the damage done to the Native-American people as a result of the efforts by the American government to replace the Native-American culture with the dominant white culture. The paper discusses the problems associated with confinement to reservations, limited access to a culturally sensitive educational environment and the unique legal position that Native-American tribes hold. The paper also briefly looks at how the tribal gaming and casino business has helped bring economic prosperity and self-sufficiency to the the Native-American tribes.
From the Paper
"All individuals, especially during the years from adolescence to early adulthood must come to terms with one's identity and the society in which they live. The process is frequently difficult and complex. For the Native American, especially the youth, it poses greater difficulty and complexity. They often feel pulled in different directions by two different cultures, including one, which has often to fail to accept them. The impact of United States culture and the combination of acculturation, pluralism, frequent segregation has produced results such as disorganized family life, geographic isolation created by remote reservations, educational deficiencies, alcoholism, to name a few."
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Native Americans, 2004.
This paper discusses the past history and present condition of Native American tribes.
1,140 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 39.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Native American tribes lost sovereignty over their lands, which were considered sacred to them, because the colonists and, later, the U.S. wanted the valuable resources on the land and needed the space for their own populous growth. The author explains that the constant uphill battle to gain independence has led to many Native Americans feeling abandoned by the government as they try to improve their reservations and preserve their history and ancestors' way of life. The paper relates that there are very few present day 'heroes' for a young Native American growing up in a poverty-stricken area of a struggling reservation.
From the Paper
"Native American communities not only struggle with high levels of unemployment and poverty, but are also affected by alcoholism, depression, obesity, and other health and mental health related issues that far exceed any other minority in the United States. This is startling to imagine that a whole community of people is affected by such difficulties, solely because they are unable to gain their own independence. Some may argue that there are other factors that contribute to these facts, but it is a vicious circle, enabled by a system of government that is more interested in their own economic gains and livelihood."
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Native American Women, 2005.
A discussion on Native American Women from the pre-European settlement times.
2,250 words (approx. 9.0 pages), 5 sources, $ 89.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at Native American Women and focuses on the changes in life that the Europeans brought to Native American women, and the struggles that began. It further discusses the stereotypes that forever influenced these women's lives and relates how these misconceptions still affect Native American women of today.
From the Paper
"The perceptions that have historically been applied to Native American women have often been that they have always been subservient beings, abused by their husbands, who have no choice in their personal destinies (Hoxie). Throughout time various individuals have contended that Native American women were mere shadows in the existence of tribal men, and that slavery was not uncommon for them because it was an element of the world that they were born into. Yet, the research will demonstrate that these philosophies about Native American women were subjective analysis of females that were unknown to those providing critique. It will further show that beneath these suppositions existed the lives of people that historically made tremendous contributions to their cultures, and who currently are the greatest strength that continue the traditions in the Native American tribes. "
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Native Americans, 2005.
This paper discusses the problem of alcoholism among Native Americans.
1,800 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 2 sources, $ 71.95
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Abstract
This paper evaluates the alternatives, which are available for members of the Native American population that face alcoholism in their daily lives. The author anticipates that these problems are difficult to overcome due to the massive distrust and apprehension of other people, both within and beyond the Native American culture. The paper relates that, within Native American communities, it is expected that there are varying degrees of support for this complex problem of alcoholism.
From the Paper
'Native Americans are a unique group of individuals that possess their own distinct culture, one that has experienced tremendous turmoil and strife over the years. In many instances, Native Americans have faced much adversity within their personal and social lives, and the exclusion of this culture from many standard offerings in America has led to considerable weaknesses amongst personalities. In many cases, Native Americans are not able to face their personal and social problems without the assistance of drugs or alcohol as a means of coping with reality. Within Native American communities, it is expected that there are varying degrees of support for these processes, and many individuals within these groups possess a variety of complex problems and circumstances.'
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Native-American Dropouts from High School, 2007.
This paper studies the high dropout rates among Native-American high school students.
1,957 words (approx. 7.8 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer looks at research regarding Native-American dropouts from high school. The writer notes that the problems that arose in the process of locating young Native-Americans who had dropped out of school, helped the researchers come to terms with the kind of poverty and depressing environments in which these people lived. The writer concludes that as a nation, America took most of the Indian's lands away from them, placed them on reservations, and now the U.S. allows giant corporations to profit by exploiting and polluting the land the Indians count on for their survival. The writer maintains that this should be a topic in all high schools, especially Native-American high schools.
From the Paper
"In autumn, 1980, high dropout rates among Native-American students in a Montana high school district were so out of proportion with other school districts' dropout rates that a study was needed in order to come to grips with the problem. According to an article in the Journal of American Indian Education, about 60 percent of Native Americans were dropping out before finishing their high school careers. And 90 percent of the students were of Native-American ethnicity."
"In order to conduct what the district believed would be an "empirical" study of the problem, the district partnered with the University of Montana, which set up the research. The method used was to carefully examine the problem, develop instruments for the analysis, develop good techniques for interviewing, reach out to the dropouts and carefully assess the data resulting from the project."
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Taoism and Native American Religions, 2004.
An analysis of the parallels between Taoism and Native American religious beliefs.
979 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 8 sources, APA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how, out of the three Chinese religions of Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism, the one religion that most closely relates to the Native American religions is unquestionably Taoism. It looks at how Taoism, sometimes referred to as "Naturism", involves observations of and attitudes toward the world of nature similar to the mannerisms and philosophical beliefs of most Native American religious ideology. It discusses how Taoism is also very involved with the Cosmos and Heaven and the manner in which it can be related to the world of nature. It also shows how Native American religious beliefs and Taoism are quite analogous when dealing with the ways in which they are polytheistic and several other religious aspects.
From the Paper
"Native Americans also believe they should be directed by nature, but for a different reason. A "Vision Quest" is often completed by Native Americans who want to attain a special ability. Usually, a young person on a vision quest lives without food, sometimes without water, and with little possessions. This is done to make the person appear materially poor and spiritually humble before the spirits. This is very similar to the Taoist idea that when an infant comes into the world, it knows no craft and has no ambitions to live yet is cared for, fed, and clothed (Hopfe & Woodward 178). In much the same way, the Native Americans believe that the spirits of nature will assist them, guide them, feed them, and protect them in their journey through earthly existence."
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