Module. 2- Cultural Assimilation

Author:  Kevin M. Smith

Cultural Assimilation and Native Americans

            Living near and associating with members of one of the Confederacies of the Iroquois Nations, the Seneca’s, I can honesty state that my view regarding the nation hasn’t changed much since further studying the group.  As one individual, I have had several positive relationships with many members of the group whom I respect and can call friend, or even family (uncle).  After reading the effects of cultural assimilation of Indians to both past and present Americana customs, although I agree that over time many Indian nations have in fact assimilated into many customs which originated either from Europeans expanding to North America or from the early American colonies, I can’t help but acknowledge the fact that many traditions practiced by Americans today have actually been assimilated from Native Peoples Nation’s.  Leaving me wondering to what degree have I as a white male actually assimilated into the beliefs and practices of Native Americans, but more specifically, Seneca Iroquois Indians?

            The first example of cultural assimilation into the culture of Seneca’s Indians is political, since it is well known that the Seneca’s, a group within a confederacy (Iroquois), which is still practiced today, was the foundational premise for establishing the colonies which would later become States of America.  Other example would include my respect and honor for all living things even though I may harvest those things (wild game) for food.  Although the hides are not specifically used for shelter or clothing, the very fact that I deem the animal as a gift, is cohesive to Seneca Indian traditions.  The methods performed for hunting and fishing, including bow hunting or spear fishing, are two activities I have assimilated from Native Americans traditions.  Another example would include the methods associated with agriculture, including the fertilization of crops through fish remains and the techniques associated with mounding crops, so that the produce does not become over saturated in a pool after heavy rainfall.  http://www.ganondagan.org/ .

            While these are only a few examples, other practices would likely emerge through a conscious effort of recognition.  Although it is fair to suggest that in many ways Native Americans have assimilated into the culture of “white” American traditions, so too have I, a white American assimilated proudly traditions from Native Americans, specifically Seneca’s.  With that being said, the major difference between the two, is that I chose to assimilate specific traditions from Native Peoples, while many of them were forced into a culture they did not approve of.

Works Cited

Ganondagon.  Org.  Preserving the Past, Providing a Future. Retrieved From             http://www.ganondagan.org/ .  Retrieved July 13, 2014.