discuss Chief Joseph’s speech. Post a detailed response to the discussion prompt. Then comment on at least two other posts. To understand how you will be graded for this assignment, read the Discussion Guidelines and Rubric. Using your knowledge from the text and Chief Joseph’s speech, what can be said about the treatment of Native Americans during this time period? How might many Native Americans have felt? Do you think you would have agreed with Chief Joseph if you were one of the chiefs to whom he was speaking? Why or why not?
Chief Joseph’s speech, given in 1879, provides a deep insight into the treatment of Native Americans during that time period. From the speech, it is clear that Native Americans were subjected to great injustices, including forced removal from their lands, broken treaties, and the loss of their way of life.
The treatment of Native Americans during this time period was characterized by a disregard for their rights and an aggressive push towards assimilation. The U.S. government implemented policies such as the Indian Removal Act of 1830, which forcibly relocated Native American tribes from their ancestral lands to designated reservations, often in harsh and unfamiliar territories. This displacement caused great suffering and loss for Native American communities, as they were stripped of their traditional way of life, including their homes, hunting grounds, and cultural practices.
Chief Joseph’s speech portrays the frustration and despair felt by many Native Americans during this time period. He speaks of broken promises, highlighting the numerous treaties that were made and then disregarded or violated by the U.S. government. He emphasizes the immense loss and suffering experienced by his tribe, the Nez Perce, stating, "Upon suffering beyond suffering, the Red Nation shall rise again." This line conveys a sense of hopelessness and the resilience of Native Americans in the face of adversity.
Many Native Americans likely felt a deep sense of injustice, anger, and grief over the treatment they received. The forced removal from their lands disrupted their way of life and threatened the survival of their communities. They witnessed the destruction of their culture and the loss of their ancestral heritage. It is reasonable to assume that many Native Americans felt a profound sense of loss and betrayal, leading to a shared sentiment of resistance and determination to protect what remained.
If I were one of the chiefs to whom Chief Joseph was speaking, I would have agreed with him wholeheartedly. His words eloquently express the pain and suffering inflicted upon our people, as well as the injustice and broken promises that have been forced upon us. I would be in solidarity with Chief Joseph's call to fight for the rights of our people and to protect our culture and way of life.
Chief Joseph's speech is not just a plea for justice and respect, but also a powerful testament to the resilience and strength of the Native American people. It serves as a reminder of the significant struggles they faced during this time and continues to inspire the fight for Native American rights and recognition.
Comment on post 1:
I completely agree with your analysis of Chief Joseph's speech. The treatment of Native Americans during this time period was indeed marked by numerous injustices and a lack of regard for their rights. The forced removal from their lands and the broken treaties are clear examples of the mistreatment they endured. Your point about the profound sense of loss and betrayal felt by many Native Americans is especially poignant. Chief Joseph's speech captures this sentiment perfectly and I can imagine how impactful it must have been for those who listened to him speak.
Comment on post 2:
I appreciate your perspective on Chief Joseph's speech. Your point about the forced assimilation policies is crucial to understanding the treatment of Native Americans during this time. The loss of their traditional way of life and the destruction of their culture was a deliberate strategy employed by the U.S. government to erase their identity. Your analysis adds depth to the discussion and further emphasizes the immense challenges faced by Native Americans during this period.