Introduction
In this full documentary titled “Broken Treaties,” produced by Oregon Public Broadcasting (OPB), the complex history of Native Americans in Oregon is explored. From the time of the first settlers arriving in the land to the struggles faced by indigenous tribes, this article dives deep into the narrative, shedding light on the various tribal groups, their relationships with natural resources, and the heartbreaking consequences of broken treaties.
Key Points:
- Oregon’s Indigenous People: A Diverse Tapestry
- Historical Perspective: White Settlement and Indian Resistance
- Persistence and Survival: Native Americans Today
- Cultural Significance of Land and Resources
- Doctrine of Discovery: The Legal Basis for Dispossession
- The Oregon Trail and the Displacement of Native Americans
- Violence and Bloodshed: Clashes Between Indigenous Tribes and Settlers
- The Impact of Broken Treaties and Land Theft
Oregon’s Indigenous People: A Diverse Tapestry
Oregon’s history is deeply intertwined with that of its native inhabitants. For thousands of years, the land was home to numerous tribes, each with its specific culture, language, and traditions. These tribes, including the Umatilla, Walla Walla, Cayuse, and Klamath, formed a rich tapestry that shaped the region’s identity. The diverse geography of Oregon influenced each tribe’s way of life, from coastal tribes relying on abundant marine resources to inland tribes adopting seasonal mobility strategies to procure food.
Historical Perspective: White Settlement and Indian Resistance
Unfortunately, the arrival of white settlers spelled trouble for the indigenous people of Oregon. As the settlers coveted the natural resources of the land, conflicts arose with the native tribes who were seen as obstacles. Treaties were signed that purported to protect the land and resources of the tribes, but these treaties were often broken, leading to displacement and violence. The doctrine of discovery, a legal principle used by colonial powers to legitimize their land claims, played a crucial role in the dispossession of Native Americans and justified the actions of the settlers.
Persistence and Survival: Native Americans Today
Despite the many obstacles and attempts to eradicate their culture, Native Americans in Oregon have persevered and continue to thrive today. The documentary highlights the resilience of these communities, emphasizing how they have maintained their language, traditions, and tribal identities. Oregon is now home to nine federally recognized tribes, each with its distinct cultural heritage. The restoration of tribal sovereignty and the recognition of their rights are ongoing processes that aim to rectify past injustices.
Cultural Significance of Land and Resources
Understanding the cultural significance of the land and natural resources is key to comprehending the struggles faced by Native Americans in Oregon. Salmon, for example, played a vital role in the subsistence and cultural practices of many tribes. Tribes would follow seasonal rounds, moving from place to place to gather food, gather roots, and hunt. The management of the land, such as controlled burning to improve resources for hunting and basket weaving, was an integral part of their societies. The loss of access to traditional territories and the disruption of these practices had far-reaching consequences for indigenous communities.
Doctrine of Discovery: The Legal Basis for Dispossession
The doctrine of discovery, originating in the 15th century, provided a legal framework for European colonial powers to claim indigenous lands as their own. This deeply flawed concept rested on the belief that these lands were unoccupied and did not possess the same rights as the colonizers. Unfortunately, this doctrine was also applied in the United States, leading to the dispossession of Native American lands, including those in Oregon. The concept of manifest destiny, which claimed it was the destiny of the United States to expand its territories, further fueled this problematic ideology.
The Oregon Trail and the Displacement of Native Americans
The early 19th century marked the era of the Oregon Trail, a migration route that brought thousands of white settlers to the Pacific Northwest. The influx of settlers further intensified conflicts with the indigenous tribes residing in the region. The government, instead of upholding its treaty obligations, began giving away Native American lands, often without their consent. This blatant disregard for their rights and the resulting clashes between settlers and tribes led to a cycle of violence and dispossession.
Violence and Bloodshed: Clashes Between Indigenous Tribes and Settlers
The clashes between settlers and Native American tribes in Oregon were marked by violence and bloodshed. Historical events like the Whitman Massacre of 1847 and the subsequent retaliatory actions by settlers only worsened the situation. Native tribes, defending their lands and way of life, found themselves hunted and displaced. The settlers, armed with the belief in their manifest destiny, were relentless in their pursuit of the land and its rich resources. The army, instead of protecting Native Americans, often supported the settlers, further exacerbating the issues faced by the indigenous communities.
The Impact of Broken Treaties and Land Theft
The broken treaties and illegal land acquisitions had devastating consequences for the Native American tribes of Oregon. The loss of their ancestral lands disrupted their social structures, economies, and cultural practices. The forced removal of indigenous people and the subsequent appropriation of their resources heightened the struggles faced by these communities. Dispossession and loss of sovereignty resulted in generations of trauma and challenges for Native Americans in their fight for recognition and justice.
Conclusion
The full documentary, “Broken Treaties,” delves into the complex and often heartbreaking history of Native Americans in Oregon. From their diverse cultural backgrounds to the impact of broken treaties and land theft, the documentary provides a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by indigenous communities. Despite the injustices they endured, Native Americans in Oregon have persisted, preserving their cultures, languages, and identities. It is crucial to acknowledge this history and work towards a more just and inclusive future for all.