American History - Assignment Example

1. Click on the trail map; then click on Montana. Click on the Blackfeet Indians. Why did they regard the Americans with hostility? Blackfeet Indians’ hostility towards Americans started when eight Blackfeet warriors encountered Meriwether Lewis and a party of the Corps of Discovery in July 1806. Prior to the encounter, Blackfeet Indians were hospitable towards Europeans and eventually became trading partners with Canadian-based British merchants for 20 years. Because Blackfeet Indians acquired guns from the trade, they were able to dominate other rival tribes such as Nez Perce and Shoshone rivals.

While the Blackfeet Warriors spent the night with Americans, it was explained to them that the US intends to bring about a comprehensive peace between all the Indian tribes of the west. In fact, tribes such as Shoshones and Nez Perces had agreed to the pact and as a reward, they would receive guns and supplies for it. For Blackfeet Indians, giving guns to their enemies is a direct threat to their might. Soon enough, the discussion soon turned into a blooding fight with 2 Blackfeet warriors killed in the encounter.

Since then, Western Indians became hostile towards representatives of the American government. 2. Click on South Dakota, then the Corps of Discovery in S. Dakota. Read through the diary, what did you learn? The diary presents the richness and abundance of South Dakota when it comes to natural environment and animal life. In the diary, the Corps of Discovery members informed how they hunt animals such as elk, buffalo, deer, fox, birds, antelope and many more. The group also documented how they were able to encounter places and hills where Indians lived.

Clark specifically pointed out that the reason why Indians believe that spirits dwell on the place was because various birds assemble on top of the hill. 3. Explore the site further, and tell me 2 other interesting things that you have found.  Be very specific to illustrate to me that you have examined the site.In the site, it was interesting to learn about Nez Perce Indians who were excellent horsemen. Like their Shoshone neighbors, the Nez Perce were without guns or ammunition. Clark and his troupes described them as “cheerful and sincere”.

Another tribe which caught my interest is the Wala Wala in Washington whose chief welcomed the tribe warmly. Chief Yelleppit enjoyed the prestige of hosting his foreign visitors and sought to trade with them. Before their departure, the chief gave the troupe horses, food, and canoes. There were also celebration and dances before they left the tribe.