Article(electronic)July 1981
The Reduction of a Self‐Sufficient People to Poverty and Welfare Dependence: An Analysis of the Causes of Cherokee Indian Underdevelopment
In: The American journal of economics and sociology, Volume 40, Issue 3, p. 225-237
Checking availability at your location
This article is also available at your library: |
electronic
print
Abstract
Abstract. This investigation of American Indian underdevelopment is based on historical data on the Cherokee people which demonstrate how a self‐sufficient people have been reduced to their present state of poverty and welfare dependence. Colonialism and the imposition of White control over Native institutions undermined the Cherokees' ability to innovate effectively. This hypothesis is substantiated by similar experiences of other tribes, as well as those of different indigenous groups, such as Alaska Natives, who have been more successful in preserving their traditional cultures.
Report Issue