Option 1: Differing Perspectives on Westward Expansion
These two passages differ in their reflection of westward expansion because the first passage from Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee illustrates the brutal impact of this expansion on Native Americans, while the second passage from The Pioneer Girl encapsulates the optimism and opportunity perceived by settlers.
In the first passage, the writer states, "On the morning of November 29, 1864, a large force of about seven hundred men, mostly soldiers, attacked a camp of Cheyenne and Arapaho. The Indians had been given assurances of protection by the U.S. government, but the soldiers, under Colonel John Chivington, slaughtered over 150 men, women, and children." This quote means that despite the promises made by the government, the Native Americans faced violent and unprovoked attacks, leading to significant loss of life and trust. This communicates to the reader the extent of suffering and injustice inflicted on indigenous communities as a direct consequence of westward expansion.
However, in the second passage, the writer says, "We had to take care of ourselves and work hard, but the land was free for the taking. Every morning we woke to the sound of birds singing, and the open plains were ours to farm and to build." This quote means that settlers viewed the land as an opportunity for growth and success, and they felt proud to contribute to the nation’s development. This communicates a sense of adventure and progress that was central to the settler experience but fails to acknowledge the violent displacement of Native American peoples.
In conclusion, based on the contrasting narratives presented in these passages, we can understand how history is multifaceted. The perspective of the Native Americans shows us the brutality and injustice that accompanied westward expansion, while the perspective of the settlers highlights their belief in progress and opportunity. Therefore, considering these differing viewpoints is crucial to gaining a comprehensive understanding of historical events like westward expansion, as they reveal the complexities and human experiences that shape our past.
Option 2: Public Advocacy in Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee
Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee can serve as a work of public advocacy by showing the injustices faced by Native Americans during the westward expansion through the eyes of those who experienced it firsthand. Dee Brown's representation of Native American history emphasizes their suffering and resilience in the face of atrocities.
For example, the writer states, "Chivington's men burned the village, mutilated the bodies, and took trophies of the massacre." This quote means that the violence inflicted upon Native American communities went beyond mere conflict; it involved a level of brutality that was intended to instill fear and demonstrate dominance. This communicates to the reader the grave injustices and moral failures of the U.S. government's policies during this period.
In conclusion, based on Dee Brown's detailed historical accounts, we can understand the magnitude of the injustices faced by Native American tribes, and how they were systematically erased from the narrative of American expansion. Therefore, it is important to consider these perspectives to foster a more inclusive and accurate understanding of American history, as well as to advocate for the recognition and rights of indigenous peoples today.
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