An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States

In what ways did the Doctrine of Discovery strengthen the U.S. origin myth, as defined by Dunbar-Ortiz? Provide a detailed explanation of your answer.

Dunbar-Ortiz points out several examples within U.S. culture or language that reflect continuing bias against Indigenous peoples. Based on Dunbar-Ortiz’s arguments, discuss three such examples and explain in detail how they might reflect skewed history or help perpetuate stereotypes of Indigenous peoples.

How has popular culture, such as literature or media, contributed to reinforcing the U.S. origin myth of the idea of exceptionalism? In what ways does popular culture continue to reinforce the U.S. origin myth? Provide two historical examples and two modern examples to support your answer.

Dunbar-Ortiz extensively discusses the “culture of conquest” and “way of war” of European and, later, U.S., settler-colonialists. How did this culture and way of war develop throughout U.S. history? Do you believe the “way of war” has changed over time? Has it gotten worse? Explain your answer.

Dunbar-Ortiz draws a direct link between the colonialist history of the United States and present-day problems in U.S. society. For example, she describes the wars against Indigenous nations and communities as a template for later overseas U.S. imperialism. Do you agree with her argument that the past, present, and the future are linked? Why or why not? Explain your answer.

Why does Dunbar-Ortiz reject the multicultural approach or the “nation of immigrants” mantra? How strong are her arguments? Do you agree or disagree with her? Explain your answer.

Dunbar-Ortiz writes that “[e]verything in US history is about the land […]” What is the significance of land in U.S. history? How does the significance of it change depending on whose hands the land is in? Use at least three examples of arguments or key points Dunbar-Ortiz makes to support your answer.

Dunbar-Ortiz emphasizes that sovereignty is key to Indigenous survival. Why does she believe this? In your explanation, include why alternatives, such as assimilation, are limited, ineffective, or unacceptable.