An Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States – Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz – Beacon Press

Welcome to a transformative exploration of American history through the lens of Indigenous peoples. An Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States, authored by the acclaimed historian and activist Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz, provides a groundbreaking narrative that challenges the traditional perspectives of US history.

This essential book is not just a recounting of events; it is a powerful statement that shines a light on the often omitted genocidal policies that have affected Native populations for centuries. It is a narrative that spans over four hundred years, detailing the experiences of more than five hundred federally recognized Indigenous nations that comprise nearly three million people today. These communities are the descendants of the fifteen million Native people who once thrived on this land.

In this history, Dunbar-Ortiz brings forth the resistance of Native Americans against the expansion of the US empire, which has often been ignored in mainstream narratives. The book is timely and relevant, especially as movements to abolish Columbus Day and replace it with Indigenous Peoples’ Day gain traction, alongside significant protests such as those led by the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe against the Dakota Access Pipeline.

An Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States is not merely about recounting the past; it is about understanding the present. It unveils the threads of history that are crucial for grasping the current socio-political landscape in America. Dunbar-Ortiz adroitly challenges the founding myths of the United States and exposes the colonialist policies designed to seize territories and eliminate Indigenous populations.

Through her meticulous research, Dunbar-Ortiz reveals how these colonial policies were not only implemented but were also celebrated in American culture. Notable figures, such as writers James Fenimore Cooper and Walt Whitman, have contributed to creating a narrative that often overlooks the brutality faced by Indigenous peoples. The author highlights a chilling moment in history during President Andrew Jackson’s administration, where the genocidal intent was articulated by US Army General Thomas S. Jesup. His statement regarding the Seminoles starkly depicted the ruthless nature of the policies that were in place: “The country can be rid of them only by exterminating them.”

This classic bottom-up history radically reframes the understanding of American history, exploding the silences that have long haunted our national narrative. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to comprehend the complex realities of the past and their implications for today’s society.

Ultimately, An Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States is more than a historical account; it is a crucial resource that invites readers to reflect, engage, and understand the deeper narratives that shape our collective history. By acknowledging the past and its ongoing impact, we can foster a more inclusive understanding of the United States.