With this video and graphic organizer, students learn about the concept of settler colonialism, examine the history of U.S. settler colonialism, and explore the primary methods through which the United States displaced Native Americans from their lands. 

Objectives

Students will:

  • Define “settler colonialism”
  • Examine U.S. warfare and violence to conquer Native American lands
  • Explore how the United States used treaties—and violations of those treaties—to acquire Native American lands
  • Examine the role of U.S. “Indian Removal” programs in colonizing Native American lands
  • Consider what it means to acknowledge that U.S. settler colonialism—and resistance to U.S. settler colonialism—is ongoing today

Recommended Reading

Though this lesson can be completed as a stand-alone activity, the following curriculum units provide additional context on the history of settler colonialism:

Resources

Graphic Organizer

Video

Back to top