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Howard Zinn

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“A People’s History of the United States” By: Howard Zinn
CHAPTER 1: 1. The purpose of Zinn writing the book was to tell history from a perspective not from governments, conquerors, diplomat leaders etc. but from the common people such as slaves and Native Americans. He does that so we can “see” history through their eyes. Zinn wants to get us in a deeper level in history where we get the whole story and aspects. 2. Native Americans had a culture where they were very independent and treated each other equally and believed in sharing. They depended on natural environment, didn’t wear clothes or have a religion.
The Europeans lived in a society of rich and poor, which they are controlled by priests, governors, and male heads of families. They are Christian and are very religious. They all want to wealthy.
When the Native Americans met the Europeans, they welcomed them with gifts and hospitality. When the Europeans met the Natives, they took advantage of them so they can find what they are looking for. Overall, the Europeans saw the natives as savages and thought they needed less so they overpowered them. That caused the Natives to try to run away but they would be captured and killed, making the numbers of Native Americans to drop greatly. 3. The “Communities” that are identified are the Spaniards, English, and Native Americans. They all share the common interest of Trading, whether it is Knowledge or goods. The Spaniards and English had a common interest of gold and capturing slaves. Both Native Americans and Spaniards like land. The Europeans and the Natives didn’t share the common interest of gold. The Natives didn’t pay much attention to it. The Natives opposed on Slavery, land taking, and searching for gold.
CHAPTER 2:

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