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Native American Culture Was Extremely Complex And Diverse Before Colonialism

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Native American culture was extremely complex and diverse before colonialism. Languages, customs, and spiritual beliefs varied greatly among tribes, and these aspects of each group's culture were closely linked to how they interacted with the natural world. The majority of tribes were small, close-knit groups that made their living primarily from hunting and gathering. Each tribe had a different social structure, political system, and interaction with other tribes. While others were more reclusive, some tribes engaged in trade with outsiders. The culture of the Native Americans before colonialism was broadly rich and diverse, closely tied to the land, and largely shaped by the practices and beliefs of each tribe.

African Americans had a rich …show more content…

Both communities have endured oppression, marginalization, and discrimination throughout American history despite their cultural differences. The black and Native American communities in the United States share many hardships, including historic trauma related to land, resources, and education. Both groups have experienced discrimination and have been marginalized due to their race or ethnic …show more content…

Both have had to deal with false and harmful portrayals in the media, from the "noble savage" stereotype of Native Americans to the "lazy" and "dangerous" stereotypes of the Black community.

Disenfranchisement is a significant problem for the Black and Native American communities. Black Americans have not been permitted to vote since the 15th Amendment was approved in 1870, and Native Americans were not granted the right to vote in all states until 1924. Additionally, both groups still experience voter suppression today, with Native Americans and Black Americans both being subject to voter ID laws and having polling places moved due to felony convictions.

Black and Native American communities have adopted various stances regarding land. Black Americans have had to fight for their right to own land since the Reconstruction era due to land theft, displacement, and other issues that date back to the time that their ancestors were held as slaves. Contrarily, Native American tribes have preserved their lands through treaties and statutory recognition of their sovereignty. Nevertheless, despite threats of exploitation and displacement, both communities have had to fight for their right to access and control their

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