"During this time period, Native Americans were treated unfairly by the US government and many felt frustrated and betrayed. I would likely agree with Chief Joseph's message of peace, justice, and dignity for our people, as it resonates with my beliefs in standing up against oppression and fighting for our rights. If i was in his place i would have surrendered , not only out of respect, but responsibility for my people."
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I agree with your sentiment that Chief Joseph's message of peace, justice, and dignity for Native Americans is powerful and resonates with the need to stand up against oppression. Surrendering may have been a difficult decision, but it shows immense strength and responsibility for the well-being of his people. It takes courage to make choices that prioritize the safety and future of the community, even in the face of great injustice.
"Chief Joseph was 40 miles from Canada when he surrendered to American troops. I wouldn't have made the same decision because white Americans had a habit of treating the Native Americans horribly and the government didn't do much to stop it. For example, the miners disregarded the Fort Laramie treaty because of the gold there and federal officials tried to force Native Americans to sign a new treaty. Some fought back and that resulted in the horrific Sand Creek massacre. A congressional committee condemned Chivington, the man who ordered the militia to attack the Native Americans, but he had already left the army and the text doesn't describe any punishment like life in prison. There was also the Wounded Knee massacre, where Native Americans fled a reservation because Sitting Bull was killed for encouraging the ghost dance. The ghost dance was a dance where Native Americans joined hands in a large circle because they believed the Great Spirit would bring about a new, plentiful world free from whites if they did. Native American children were also sent to boarding schools to be "Americanized", and were prohibited from practicing their culture."
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I wholeheartedly agree with your perspective on the mistreatment and betrayal of Native Americans by white Americans and the government during that time period. The examples you provided, such as the disregard for treaties, the horrific massacres at places like Sand Creek and Wounded Knee, and the forced assimilation of Native American children in boarding schools, showcase the deep-rooted systemic injustices faced by Indigenous peoples. It is understandable why you would not have made the same decision as Chief Joseph to surrender, given the history of violence and betrayal inflicted upon Native Americans by the US government and white settlers. Your awareness of these atrocities and your stance against such oppression is commendable.
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