United States of Genocide: Legacy of Christopher Columbus
by Madinah Noorai on Oct 13, 2014 | Views: 291 | Score: 6
| Native American Population | |
|---|---|
| 1500 | 12000000 |
| 1900 | 237000 |
North American Indian Population Decline
Sources:
historynewsnetwork.org
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The biggest genocide in history occurred right here on American soil, but is only a few pages in our history books. Natives were systematically wiped out through warfare, starvation, and diseases such as smallpox and measles, which are thought to have killed between 75% and 90% of the population.
This is why I don't believe we should be celebrating Columbus Day. The start of the Native American Genocide.
The atrocities committed against the Native Americans are undeniable. It is important to be careful about how we celebrate Columbus Day as well as Thanksgiving. It is important to have in mind the historical context of these events while at the same time celebrating formative steps and events in our countries history.
History is written by the victors. If Germany had won WWII Hitler would have a holiday too.
This day is celebrated as "Indigenous People's Day" in a number of U.S. cities, I hope this is done nationally!