Native Peoples in Early United States

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to the status and perspectives of Native Americans in early US history, as discussed in the lecture.

Merciless Indian Savages

Term used in the Declaration of Independence (1776) to describe Native Americans, highlighting their perceived threat.

Articles of Confederation

The first governing document of the United States (1781), which referred to Native Americans as 'nations'.

Sovereignty

The authority of a group to govern itself and make its own decisions.

Assimilation

The process by which Native Americans were encouraged or forced to adopt European-American culture and identity.

Reservations

Designated areas where Native Americans were relocated, often losing land and resources over time.

Nativist

A position advocating for the preservation of Native identity and rights.

Assimilationist

A position advocating for Native Americans to adopt the culture and lifestyle of European-Americans.

Survivance

A concept combining survival and resistance; it reflects the ongoing resilience of Indigenous peoples against marginalization.

Political Sovereignty

The right of Indigenous peoples to govern themselves and make political decisions.

Cultural Sovereignty

The right of Indigenous peoples to maintain and transmit their traditions and cultural practices.

Rhetorical Sovereignty

The ability of Indigenous peoples to speak for themselves and control their own narratives.