Indigenous peoples are the original stewards of the land, yet nearly all Native nations have endured colonization, cultural erasure, and political battles over sovereignty. This course explores Indigenous communities' historical and ongoing struggles, examining how anthropology was used to justify colonial practices and how it later became a tool for Indigenous empowerment. What role did scholars, researchers, and activists play in redefining Native studies? By asking these questions, learners discover how history continues to shape present-day Indigenous rights and identity.

Students will learn about complex concepts such as blood quantum, the practice of “othering,” and the misrepresentation of Indigenous peoples by outside experts. The course highlights the groundbreaking contributions of Native scholars like Vine Deloria Jr., who challenged mainstream anthropology and advanced Native studies. By exploring the role of cultural experts, natural resource rights, and political responses to federal policies, learners understand the challenges Indigenous communities face and the strategies they use to resist oppression and reclaim their voices.

This course is more than history; it is a critical lens for understanding contemporary Indigenous resilience. You will study how Native nations assert sovereignty, protect sacred sites, and leverage anthropology to secure cultural rights. Through a rich combination of scholarship, real-world examples, and Indigenous worldviews, this course equips learners to question dominant narratives and appreciate the enduring strength of Native nations. If you want to explore Indigenous history, rights, and cultural survival while uncovering how anthropology has shaped these struggles, this course will provide the insight and inspiration you need.