Before I say anything, let me say that I believe all religions should be respected and Christianity is no different. I do not intent to bash Christians, I simply would like to hear input. With that being said…The arrival of Europeans marked a major change in Native society. Tens of millions died due to sickness, and programs of slavery and extermination. Europeans and their missionaries looked upon Native Spirituality as worthless superstition inspired by the Christian devil, Satan. Many of the survivors were forcibly converted to Christianity.
Religion was a major problem between the settlers and the Indians. The settlers in New England were very serious about their Christian religion. They thought it was the one true faith and all people should believe in it. They soon learned that the Indians were not interested in learning about it or changing their beliefs.
Religious traditions of aboriginal peoples around the world tend to be heavily influenced by their methods of acquiring food, whether by hunting wild animals or by agriculture. American Indian spirituality is no exception. Their rituals and belief show a blending of interest in promoting and preserving their hunting and horticulture.
Many settlers came to believe that Native Americans could not be trusted because they were not Christians. The settler groups began to fear the Indians. They thought of the Indians as a people who were evil because they had no religion. The settlers told the Indians they must change and become Christians. The Indians did not understand why they should change anything.
So my question is, what do you feel about the Native American Indian? Do you feel that it was right to abolish his culture and spirituality to adapt a faith that was so different from his own? Why?
I just wanted to say thank you to EVERYONE who has provided input thus far. I find all your comments interesting and thought provoking.
