One of the key arguments in his book in support of his theory that the relationship between the American government and the Native population is based on the rule of Christian discovery is a legal case from the 1820s - Johnson v. McIntosh. Chief Justice John Marshall actually based his ruling in part upon the Papal Bull of 1493. In the case he said that the discovery of "heathens" by Christian people gave the Christians "ultimate dominion" over the "discovered Indian". This decision has never been overturned and remains the legal foundation for all American government dealings with the Native populations of the Americans.
Steven Newcomb has studied judicial history, and has in some ways approached this work like a lawyer proving his case in court. Fortunately, he refrains from using legal terminology, whenever possible, and has formulated his case in a way that all lay people can understand. The other thing to realize is that this book has been written for a native audience to help them understand the situation they face. One of the parts I found wonderful about this book was how he offers cognitive counsel for Native people to help them overcome the mindset of feeling like they are a conquered people. He reminds them that governments cannot control how they think, what they imagine, how they use their language, or where they direct their attention. As long as they remember that, and continue to work on keeping their languages, traditions, and cultures alive, no matter what constraints the government puts on them they will still be free.
Pagans In The Promised Land is a must-read for anybody wishing to understand what truly motivates American policy towards the indigenous people's within in its borders. While at times it can make for a depressing and angering read, the author ends with a message of hope that is applicable for people anywhere in the world struggling to maintain their identity in the face of what seems to be overwhelming odds.
Article comments
1 - renee iron hawk
It is very encourgaging to me when anyone validates our native cultures. We are a viable, intelligent and spiritual resource that our American nation is almost completely unaware of because of the fear established between us.
2 - len weaskus
agreed. yet how do ndns at lest, if we cannot unite, know who our friends are! c.trimble is under attack by his tribe as others are(being attacked) both non and ndn alike for advancing our cause. read f.jennings, "invasion of america" that debunks f.parkers 7 vol.set "france&england in n. america(1851-18920 as racist, fraudulent(research doc's)eugenics in america.by e.black. w.a.plecker's "racial integrity act 1924. read the racial laws of virginia commonwelth.ad naseum. we must know who are friends trully are. we ndns are not a conquered people, never were! a.jackson's so-cal'd victory over the creeks was pure slaughter then in 1814 and is today. we have friends, we are not alone