🏹Native American History

What do you learn in Native American History

Native American History covers the diverse cultures, societies, and experiences of Indigenous peoples in North America. You'll explore pre-Columbian civilizations, colonization impacts, resistance movements, and modern issues facing Native communities. The course dives into topics like tribal sovereignty, cultural preservation, and the complex relationships between Native nations and the U.S. government.

Is Native American History hard?

Native American History can be challenging, but it's not impossible. The trickiest part is wrapping your head around the sheer diversity of Native cultures and keeping track of all the different tribes and historical events. There's a lot of reading involved, and you'll need to critically analyze primary sources. But if you're into storytelling and connecting the dots between past and present, you'll find it pretty engaging.

Tips for taking Native American History in college

1. Use Fiveable Study Guides to help you cram 🌶️
2. Create a timeline to keep track of key events and treaties
3. Watch documentaries like "Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee" for visual context
4. Read Sherman Alexie's "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" for modern perspective
5. Visit local Native American museums or cultural centers if possible
6. Focus on understanding different tribal perspectives, not just memorizing facts
7. Pay attention to how Native history connects to current issues like land rights and cultural appropriation

Common pre-requisites for Native American History

1. U.S. History Survey: This course provides a broad overview of American history from colonial times to the present. It sets the stage for more focused study on Native American experiences.

2. Introduction to Anthropology: This class introduces students to the study of human cultures and societies. It offers valuable insights into analyzing different cultural practices and beliefs.

Classes similar to Native American History

1. African American History: Explores the experiences of African Americans from slavery to the present day. It covers topics like the Civil Rights Movement and ongoing struggles for equality.

2. Latin American History: Examines the history of Central and South America, including indigenous civilizations, colonization, and modern political developments.

3. American West History: Focuses on the expansion and development of the western United States, including interactions between settlers and Native American tribes.

4. Cultural Anthropology: Studies diverse human cultures, including their beliefs, practices, and social structures. It often includes in-depth looks at various indigenous cultures.

Majors related to Native American History

1. History: Focuses on studying and interpreting past events, cultures, and societies. Students develop critical thinking and research skills while exploring various historical periods and themes.

2. Anthropology: Examines human cultures, behaviors, and societies across time and space. Students learn about cultural diversity, archaeological methods, and social structures.

3. American Studies: Combines history, literature, and social sciences to explore American culture and identity. Students analyze various aspects of American life, including minority experiences and cultural movements.

4. Ethnic Studies: Concentrates on the experiences, cultures, and histories of specific ethnic groups. Students examine issues of race, identity, and social justice in historical and contemporary contexts.

What can you do with a degree in Native American History?

1. Museum Curator: Organizes and manages collections of historical artifacts and documents. Curators also develop educational programs and exhibitions to share knowledge with the public.

2. Cultural Resource Manager: Protects and preserves cultural heritage sites and artifacts. They work with Native communities, government agencies, and developers to ensure respectful treatment of culturally significant areas.

3. Tribal Liaison: Acts as a bridge between Native American tribes and government agencies or corporations. They facilitate communication and ensure that Native perspectives are considered in decision-making processes.

4. Education Specialist: Develops curriculum and educational programs about Native American history and culture. They might work in schools, museums, or cultural centers to promote understanding and accurate representation of Native peoples.

Native American History FAQs

1. How does Native American History differ from standard U.S. History courses? Native American History focuses specifically on Indigenous perspectives and experiences, often challenging traditional narratives. It provides a more in-depth look at Native cultures and their interactions with European settlers and the U.S. government.

2. Are there field trips or hands-on components to this course? Many Native American History courses include visits to local museums, archaeological sites, or cultural centers. Some may also incorporate guest speakers from Native communities or hands-on activities like traditional crafts.

3. How does this course address contemporary Native American issues? The course typically connects historical events to modern challenges faced by Native communities. It often covers topics like tribal sovereignty, cultural revitalization efforts, and ongoing legal battles over land rights and resources.