When Columbus “discovered” America, little did he know that he had encountered a vast continent that was home to hundreds of indigenous nations with their own distinct cultures. As more Europeans arrived, these native peoples, who lived in harmony with the land, were systematically herded to designated areas to live in confinement and abject poverty. Native communities were destroyed and others were forcefully assimilated.
Centuries later, Native Americans work to reestablish and maintain their heritage through educational programs and advancement. In 1990, in an effort to honor and recognize Native Americans, the U.S. government designated the first National American Indian Heritage Month. The National Museum of the American Indian, which houses a vast collection of artifacts, was established as part of the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. in 2004.
The rich history and myriad achievements of Native Americans are highlighted in such SIRS Renaissance articles as:
- The Great Chiefs: Black Hawk
- Comanche Nation Keeps Its Traditional Life Alive
- Proud Stand of a Forgotten People
- Tradition!
- In the Spirit
SIRS® Renaissance is part of the library’s SIRS Knowledge Source database.