In "Facing West," Richard Drinnon explores the complex historical interactions between Native Americans and European settlers, shedding light on the often-overlooked cultural collisions and the impact of westward expansion. Through vivid storytelling and a meticulous examination of historical events, the author unveils the narratives of those marginalized in mainstream history. The book challenges readers to reconsider perceptions of progress and civilization. It invites them to reflect on the consequences of conquest and the resilience of indigenous cultures. Ultimately, "Facing West" is a profound inquiry into the legacy of colonization that resonates with contemporary issues.
By Richard Drinnon
Published: 1997
""To face west is to embrace the unknown, to challenge the boundaries of history and identity, and to seek a truth that lies beyond the horizon.""
American expansion, says Richard Drinnon, is characterized by repression and racism. In his reinterpretation of "winning" the West, Drinnon links racism with colonialism and traces this interrelationship from the Pequot War in New England, through American expansion westward to the Pacific, and beyond to the Phillippines and Vietnam. He cites parrallels between the slaughter of bison on the Great Plains and the defoliation of Vietnam and notes similarities in the language of aggression used in the American West, the Philippines, and Southeast Asia.
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“"To face west is to embrace the unknown, to challenge the boundaries of history and identity, and to seek a truth that lies beyond the horizon."”
Facing West
By Richard Drinnon
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Richard Drinnon is an acclaimed American author known for his in-depth explorations of history, politics, and social issues. His notable works include 'Facing West: The Metaphysics of Indian-Hating and Empire-Building', which critiques the historical narratives surrounding American expansionism, and 'The Coming of the American Behemoth', a seminal text analyzing the emergence of America's global influence. Drinnon's writing is characterized by a rigorous, critical approach, weaving together historical analysis with passionate advocacy for social justice.
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