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American Holocaust summary
Brief summary
American Holocaust by David E. Stannard highlights the devastating impact of European colonization on Indigenous peoples in America. It examines the genocidal policies and explores the historical context of this tragic chapter in human history.
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American Holocaust
Summary of key ideas
An Untold Story of Genocide
In American Holocaust, author David E. Stannard sheds light on the devastating impact of European colonization on the indigenous people of the Americas. Relying on historical accounts and anthropological research, the book primarily focuses on the period from the late 15th to 19th centuries. The tragic narrative begins with Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Bahamas, marking the beginning of a path of violence, disease, and exploitation that spanned centuries.
Stannard challenges the glorified narrative of exploration, revealing the atrocities committed against the native people of the newly discovered lands. The local population, characterized by a myriad of rich and diverse civilizations, fell victim to an onslaught of deadly European diseases, brutal violence and calculated genocide. By drawing attention to the Native American casualties, the book contrasts sharply against mainstream historical depictions of the European conquest.
Examining the Scale of Casualties
Stannard provides a stark examination of the magnitude of the indigenous population's decline following European contact. He estimates that approximately 100 million indigenous people inhabited the Americas before Columbus’s arrival. By the end of the 19th century, only a fraction of this population remained, making this one of history's most severe genocides. The causes of this decline, as Stannard argues, are attributable to the lethal combination of European-introduced diseases, deliberate acts of mass killings, forced labor, famines and forced relocations.
Stannard also criticises the ways in which the indigenous peoples of the Americas were dehumanized, which facilitated their mistreatment and extermination. Explorers, colonists and religious figures often portrayed indigenous peoples as less than human, either as savages needing taming or as creatures without souls. This deep-seated racism justified extreme violence and disregard for indigenous cultures, languages and ways of life.
Confronting The Myths of Cultural Superiority
The author further criticises the myth of cultural superiority propagated by European colonizers. According to Stannard, the indigenous cultures of the Americas were not "primitive", as commonly believed, but complex and sophisticated. He asserts that these societies had developed advanced systems of democracy, economic productivity and sustainable land use long before European contact. Acknowledging the high levels of societal development of these cultures forces us to challenge the implicit racism of the "civilizing mission" narrative.
Moreover, Stannard points out the irony in the European observation of the indigenous peoples as "Godless." He underscores the deep spiritual beliefs held by many indigenous societies, which was largely ignored or belittled by the Europeans entranced by their sense of religious supremacy.
An Unflinching Historical Account
In the final part of American Holocaust, Stannard calls for a profound rethinking of our understanding of American history. He suggests that the genocide of the indigenous peoples of the Americas should not be glossed over or sugar-coated, but confronted directly and mourned. By doing so, we can start to acknowledge the profound historical injustices that lie at the heart of American history.
Stannard advocates for a reassessment of Euro-American behavior towards indigenous peoples, aiming for a future characterized by justice and respect. American Holocaust challenges readers to face the bitter realities of the past, acknowledge the cruelty, and learn valuable lessons to build a more equitable future. This grave analysis does not only shed light on the shocking scale of destruction but sparks reflection about the long-lasting impact of this devastation on contemporary society.
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What is American Holocaust about?
This book explores the devastating impact of European colonization on the indigenous peoples of the Americas. Stannard examines the widespread violence, disease, and displacement that resulted in the deaths of millions of Native Americans, arguing that it constituted a genocide on a massive scale. Through meticulous research and powerful storytelling, "American Holocaust" sheds light on a dark chapter in history and challenges readers to confront the true cost of conquest.
American Holocaust Review
American Holocaust (1992) sheds light on the lesser-known history of the systematic destruction of indigenous peoples in the Americas. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- Offers a comprehensive exploration of the horrors and impact of the European colonization on Native American populations.
- Presents a rare perspective that challenges conventional narratives and offers a more accurate understanding of the historical events.
- Addresses the humanitarian consequences of these atrocities, emphasizing the need for remembrance and ensuring that history is not forgotten.
Who should read American Holocaust?
- Those interested in learning about the history and impact of the colonization of the Americas
- History buffs who want to gain a deeper understanding of the Native American genocide
- Readers looking to broaden their knowledge of the consequences of European expansion
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American Holocaust FAQs
What is the main message of American Holocaust?
The main message of American Holocaust is the brutal truth about the history of Native American genocide.
How long does it take to read American Holocaust?
The estimated reading time for American Holocaust is several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is American Holocaust a good book? Is it worth reading?
American Holocaust is a poignant and eye-opening book that is definitely worth reading.
Who is the author of American Holocaust?
The author of American Holocaust is David E. Stannard.
What to read after American Holocaust?
If you're wondering what to read next after American Holocaust, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Manufacturing Consent by Edward S. Herman and Noam Chomsky
- No Logo by Naomi Klein
- The Bottom Billion by Paul Collier
- The Shock Doctrine by Naomi Klein
- Brave New War by John Robb
- Man, the State and War by Kenneth N. Waltz