an interesting twist to the story

I also thought the presentations this week were particularly interesting. We have always learned about how the Europeans came in, decided where they wanted to settle, and forced the Natives off of the land that they wanted. I have really always thought, I guess rather ignorantly, that Europeans were the sole factor in the displacement and demise of the tribes all over the United States. Of course, that was a major factor, but it surprised me to learn that Natives also helped themselves become less and less able to thrive off the land. When you read about the numerous successful tribes of long ago, it's somewhat hard to believe that they didn't always think of factors that would better their communities. The ecology factor seems like a much smaller factor in the bigger picture. But, when it came to feeding both bison and horses, both animals having large appetites, the environment just couldn't keep up. This, and other factors, made hardships for the Natives before Europeans ever got to them. Once again, it is an interesting, but unfortunate part of history for me to learn.