The Treatment of Indigenous Peoples by European Settlers: A Dark History
European settlers brought with them a varied and often appaling approach to treating indigenous peoples. Their interactions ranged from admiring to outright violent, as seen in the numerous instances of lands and lives being sacrificed at the altar of conquest. Before the arrival of the Europeans, indigenous peoples had established rich and sophisticated cultures across the lands they occupied. However, the arrival of these newcomers often marked the beginning of a period of exploitation, violence, and subjugation.
Conquest and Land Grabs
Many early European settlers saw indigenous peoples not only as barriers to their expansion but as outright enemies to be eliminated. They brought advanced weapons that allowed them to overpower and subdue native populations. Initial interactions, such as the first settlements in Australia, were often based on intentions to respect the native inhabitants. However, these intentions quickly gave way to conflict. When Aboriginal people began raiding settlements, destroying property, and inflicting injuries, settlers were given the right to defend themselves.
Examples from History
Tasmania
A particularly gruesome example is the case of Tasmania, where the entire Aboriginal population was virtually wiped out. This atrocity is only now widely acknowledged, with some beliefs suggesting that some Tasmanians might still be alive. This brutal treatment is not unique to this region; elsewhere, indigenous people faced hunting, enslavement, and massacres.
Perth and Beyond
In the area where I live, the city of Perth had strict curfews enforced on Aboriginal people, and several massacres have taken place. One such massacre, the Pinjarra Massacre, was only recently renamed by some historians. Additionally, the British conducted atomic bomb testing on indigenous land, adding to the atrocities committed against these populations.
Christianity and the Spread of Colonization
Christianity played a significant role in the expansion of European empires, often serving as a justification for invasions and colonization. The spread of Christianity in the Americas, for instance, was marked by a history of lies, violence, and mass killings. A study published in the Journal Quaternary Science Reviews estimates that around 56 million Native Americans died as a result of European colonization, primarily through disease and warfare, leaving around 800,000 by the end of the 15th century.
The Monarchical Influence
Throughout history, monarchs have often been the patrons of the church, exerting their influence over religious practices. In England, the monarch remains the head of the Protestant Church of England. The concept of “the sun never sets on the empire,” which was a common phrase, reflects the global reach and control of British churches and their role in expanding Christianity.
Ideological Shifts and Conflict
American Christian Nazism
The ideology of Christian Nazism, which emerged during the 1920s, was a significant factor in the delay of America’s entry into World War II. Industrial families such as the Trums, Kocks, and Fords were prominent figures in this movement, contributing to the delay in America’s involvement in the war. The ideological shift from Democrats to Republicans post-WWII allowed this movement to gain more traction and influence.
Conclusion
While there have been efforts to bury and ignore the tragic parts of history, it is crucial to remember and share these stories. The global expansion of Christianity, though not without its positive impacts, was often achieved through the exploitation and violence of indigenous peoples. Understanding and acknowledging this history can help us move forward with a more equitable and just future.