The reading, “The Exterior Form of North America” by Alexis de Tocqueville was relatively interesting because it lies out and describes what America looked like geographically before it was settled. North America was known as a hotbed for opportunity at the time and land was extremely valuable. As many individuals know, there was a sense of rivalry between the settlers and Native American or Indian population. Tocqueville, being a European, presents a sense of discrimination towards Indians in this piece; this ideology was known to be common amongst colonizers during this said time period. He goes on to emphasize how they basically take up space on this newly founded land and do not develop it, but rather uses its’ resources. Contrary to the stereotypical beliefs, Native Americans appreciated what they had as they used forms of religion and farming to show this. Many Indians were confused as to why they were being treated in such a harsh way. The reason being is because the whites felt as though they were missing out, or would not get the opportunity to do what they wished with this land. Often times, the Natives were willing to give up their game with the whites; in response, they minimized their territory through fencing. Native Americans were seen as ‘savages’ by the whites and not much could persuade or convince them otherwise. Obviously, though, there are exceptions to the stereotypes that loomed America at the time and people did not entirely agree with the majority. Without Native Americans, maybe society would not be what it is today in terms of development.
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