American and Indigenous Interactions

...

In opposition, the Native Americans reacted through violence, while some reacted through nonviolent actions. In a passage by James Dorsey, he tells of an encounter between the Americans and the Natives, "Nevertheless, I am unwilling. If you go further, instead if obeying my words, we shall fight,' said the white man. 'I will go beyond. You may fight me. As the land is mine, I shall go,' said White-Buffalo-in-the-distance,"(75). This account shows how some natives didn't want to listen to the Americans. By doing so, it led to violent conflict between the two in many other situations, as well. However, not all Natives wanted war. Some sought peace and harmony. In his book, Foner states, "These tribes have become everything that 'civilized' Indians could be assimilated into the American population. These tribes had made great efforts to become everything republican citizens should be. The Cherokee had taken the lead, establishing schools, adopting written laws and a constitution… and becoming successful farmers, many of whom owned slaves…'Free Citizens of the Cherokee Nation' petitioned congress for aid in remaining 'in peace and quietude upon their ancient territory.' In good American fashion, Cherokee leaders also went to court to protect their rights,"(382). In this quote, you can see how some Natives tried to integrate into the American system. Some went as far as even owning slaves just to become American and fit in. This retaliation method is non-violent and is very bizarre compared to other interactions between the Whites and the Natives. So as you can see, the Native people retaliated with both violent and non-violent methods.

In conclusion, the Colonies and the States both justified their expansion by having a huge population with need for more land. They both shared a common thought that the land they were intruding on was free and they could do what they pleased; they, also, made the Natives look like harsh enemies who needed separation for both separate civilizations to prosper. This did not sit well with the Native Americans. They sought retaliation in both violence and peace, trying to find a greater good for their people. In the end, the American people won the battle over the land and became what is now the most diverse population in the entire world.

...