Understanding the Complexity of Native American History
Introduction
American natives should not be forgotten in US history since they were very influential
during the early history. Gathering knowledge about their history, at least the points highlighted
by Neal Salisbury’s work on Native Americans and the Coming of Europeans, I started
appreciating their important historical background, their losses, and their endurance. In this
reflection, it is possible to analyze these issues and identify personal learning experiences
concerning the role of Native American societies in history.
Historical Context
Talks about the pre-colonial periods of North America by Salisbury show that America was
filled with complex and developed societies, contrary to what historians wrote. Again,
Europeans' arrival played a key role in disturbing these societies and their way of life through
social humiliation by grabbing their land, erasing their cultural practices and beliefs, and
finalizing social degradation through diseases. However, one cannot help but sit up and take
notice of the guts that some tribes of Native Americans have shown in the face of such adversity,
more so because traits of tenacity and flexibility seem to be the traits that are highlighted and
illustrated in the solitary note of victims that the Indigenous peoples of America carry with them.
Personal Connection
Reading Salisbury's work has fundamentally changed the way I look at the history of the
United States. It has changed my outlook from perceiving the Native Americans simply as an
appendix in the history of North America to admitting them as the main cast of the regional
history. This change is not simply theoretical; it affects my approach to the present and emerging
issues related to the Native people and the rights they fight for. When combining historical
content with my perspectivism it has enriched my understanding of Indian tribes' confrontation
with European settlers. It is based upon this understanding that revisionist history needs to be
done, correcting historical analysis that instead allows the native people's histories to provide the
understanding of the past interactions that have not only created the present world but have also
given the inhabitants personal positive values to live by.
Conclusion
The lessons taught at Salisbury have been privileged to get a glimpse of Native American
history. As well as broadening my general understanding, it has helped me develop an
appreciation of the Native American people’s strength and efforts for existence. As a result of
this reflection process, the concept of diversity has been reemphasized in history, especially the
history of America, to enhance its coverage. Thus, I value the historical background and
resilience of Native American people, which contributed to the American essence.
