Course Overview and Upcoming Events

The review will include content from week one, week two, and following Doctor O'Brien's lecture, covering everything up until today.

• No reading planned for Monday as a documentary will be shown; this documentary will be included in upcoming quizzes (Quiz 1 and Quiz 2).

• A study guide will be circulated by Madeline by Friday evening, containing key terms and sample questions to prepare for the quiz.

• Students needing testing accommodations through the DRC should submit their requests by this evening to facilitate arrangements for quiz administration on Wednesday.

Communication Guidelines

Students should email both the instructor and Madeline regarding attendance or class-related queries to ensure both are informed. Emails should include the course number in the subject line for identification, given the instructor's large student volume.

Upcoming Event: Red Dress Event

The Red Dress event is scheduled for tomorrow at 11:30 in Patty Hall, room 202. There is an accessible page for event details on Canvas, set up by Natalie for student reference, ensuring easy access to information and resources relating to the event.

Lecture Introduction: Doctor Gina O'Brien

Doctor O'Brien is a Regents professor of history and director of graduate studies, deeply involved in the field of American Indian studies. The lecture will delve into themes of settler colonialism and its implications, building on concepts discussed in class.

• O'Brien's interdisciplinary training and background in American Indian history are central to her teaching and research, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Doctor O'Brien's Academic Journey

O'Brien studied American Indian studies and history at Bemidji State University and later pursued graduate studies at the University of Chicago, focusing on indigenous history.

• She emphasizes the significance of historical narratives of Native Americans and how these narratives are constructed and disseminated, highlighting the impact of educational institutions in shaping these stories.

Major Themes of Discussion

• Settler Colonialism: O'Brien emphasizes the historic context and ongoing impact of settler colonialism on Native communities, including the socio-political and economic challenges faced. This discussion encompasses the systemic inequalities created by colonization that continue to affect indigenous populations, such as loss of land, cultural dislocation, and the challenge of navigating identity in a post-colonial world.

• Historical Narratives: The notion of 'firsting' and 'lasting' in historical narratives indicates how indigenous histories are often erased or trivialized. O’Brien discusses how mainstream narratives prioritize Eurocentric perspectives, often excluding or distorting the realities of indigenous experiences. This emphasizes the necessity for a critical examination of historical texts and the importance of including indigenous voices and perspectives in historical discourse.

• Resistance and Survival: Despite systemic elimination, Native peoples have continued to assert their identity, existence, and histories through various means such as cultural practices, storytelling, and activism. O'Brien highlights the creativity and resilience shown by Native communities in preserving their traditions and advocating for their rights, illustrating how these acts of resistance challenge dominant narratives and affirm indigenous identities.

Case Studies and Examples

• Natick, Massachusetts: This area served as a missionized Indian village, revealing complexities of indigenous histories and survival amidst colonial efforts, showcasing the adaptation and resilience of Native communities.

• O'Brien's Research: Her dissertation, "Dispossession by Degrees," analyzes how Native communities navigated oppressive colonial practices while maintaining their identity through resistance, adaptation, and cultural continuity.

Key Takeaways from Lectures and Readings

• Misnarration of History: O’Brien discusses how local histories from the 19th century often ignore or misrepresent indigenous narratives. This misrepresentation frames indigenous peoples as historical artifacts rather than as living cultures, which questions the validity of commonly accepted historical narratives and encourages students to critically assess sources. O’Brien urges students to seek out primary sources and indigenous perspectives to counteract dominant narratives.

• Importance of Acknowledgment: Maintaining awareness of indigenous presences and histories remains crucial in contemporary discourse surrounding identity and sovereignty. O’Brien insists that recognizing indigenous history is not merely an academic exercise; it touches on social justice and reparative ethics in education and broader society. She promotes the need for education that includes indigenous perspectives, encouraging students to advocate for inclusionary practices in educational settings and public narratives.

Final Thoughts and Opportunities for Engagement

Students are encouraged to submit questions via email for further clarification on the topics discussed. Discussion on the intertwining of indigenous history with broader narratives of U.S. history is pivotal, highlighting the need for continued education on these topics. Engagement in this dialogue fosters a deeper understanding of systemic issues and the importance of inclusivity in historical discourse.