上班族必備軟實力

[Richard is 3/32 Choctaw. The Choctaws are one of the Five Civilized Tribes.]

Long before the Europeans came to North America, Native Americans were living on the land. There were hundreds of tribes, most with a unique language and culture. The explorers were looking for a passage to India and believed that they had found one. They called the native people “Indians” and the name stuck. The name “American Indians” also was a term that was used often. Today, Native Americans” is the preferred term.

The Native Americans had their land taken from them because they lacked the firepower and technology of the invaders. Many died from diseases that the explorers brought. Their immune systems were not able to protect them.
 

The Trail of Tears

Over the years, the Europeans took over more and more land and pushed the natives into unwanted spaces. The people of the Five Civilized Tribes were forced to move from their homes in the East to a land in the middle of America. This place was known as Indian Territory, but today it is the state of Oklahoma.

Many Native Americans died on the way to Oklahoma. The path they took is called “The Trail of Tears”. Indian Territory gradually became smaller and smaller until one day it was gone.

Today, Native Americans have their own governments and can get away with stuff that is against the law for non-Native Americans. They can sell cigarettes without the huge taxes that the U.S. government charges. Places that sell these cigarettes are called “Indian Smoke Shops”. Gambling casinos can also be operated legally by Native Americans.

The native languages are dying out. Fewer of the young people are learning them and they will soon be forgotten. It is sad. Thank you for reading.