A paragraph that helped shape a nation, with disastrous results.



On the cusp of the Fourth of July 2018  I pay tribute to the American Declaration of Independence 1776.

 I try to read it every year.  You should do so here:

 https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-transcript

It is a magnificent statement,  that is until we read this section
He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages, whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.

 "our frontiers"   Really?  (whose frontiers indeed!?)

 "merciless Indian Savages"   Dreadful.

 Thus the noble indigenous peoples were reduced to the status of "merciless Indian Savages" by the so-called enlightened framers of the Declaration of Independence. 

 The results were horrifying.  They led  to a virtual genocide of the pre-colonial indigenous peoples.

 If you will, raise your glasses to celebrate the Fourth.  Gorge on steaks and corn on the cob.

 But do not forget the victims of our freedom from the rule of King George III :  the noble indigenous inhabitants who lived, loved, and prospered here until the framers of the Declaration of Independence decided that they were no more than merciless Indian Savages.

 I plan to have a quiet and reflective Fourth.  I'll be back in touch on Thursday.









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