How Many Native Americans Were Killed By Us

Let's talk about a topic that's often overlooked, but really important: the impact of US history on Native Americans. Think about it like this: imagine you're at a family reunion, and someone starts telling a story about your ancestors that's just not true. You'd want to set the record straight, right? That's what we're going to do here, with the help of historical facts and some eye-opening examples.

A lot of us learn about Native Americans in school, but it's often a sugarcoated version of what really happened. We might hear about Columbus discovering America, but not about the millions of people already living here. It's like learning about a recipe without knowing the secret ingredient - you're missing the whole story!

So, what really happened?

Estimates vary, but it's believed that between 50 million to 100 million Native Americans were killed by US forces, diseases, and other factors. To put that in perspective, that's like the entire population of California and Texas combined being wiped out. It's a staggering number, and it's essential to understand the historical context behind it.

One way to think about it is to imagine a small town, like the one you might live in, being completely destroyed. You'd feel shocked, saddened, and maybe even a little angry. That's how many Native Americans felt, and still feel today, when they think about what happened to their ancestors. It's not just about the past; it's about the ongoing impact on their communities.

For example, did you know that boarding schools were used to assimilate Native American children into white culture? It's like taking a kid away from their family and forcing them to give up their favorite hobby or tradition. It's a loss of identity, and it's still felt today. Many Native Americans are working to revitalize their languages and preserve their cultures, but it's an uphill battle.

Covid’s Toll on Native Americans - The New York Times

Why should we care?

We should care because it's our shared history, and understanding it can help us build a better future. It's like being part of a big team - we all need to work together to achieve our goals. By acknowledging the past and its ongoing effects, we can start to heal and move forward. Plus, learning about Native American cultures is pretty cool - from traditional music to delicious foods, there's a lot to appreciate!

So, next time you're at that family reunion, or just hanging out with friends, take a moment to think about the NATIVE AMERICANS who came before us. You might not be able to change the past, but you can help create a more inclusive and respectful future. And who knows, you might just learn something new and amazing along the way!

In conclusion, it's essential to face the harsh realities of US history and its impact on Native Americans. By doing so, we can work towards a brighter future, one that's filled with understanding, respect, and appreciation for all cultures. So, let's get started on this journey of discovery, and see where it takes us!