I think the author utilized this poem as a convenient and straightforward method to inform the audience about what happened that gave name to Dakota 38. The author uses repetition and short sentences to make sure the audience learn about the Dakota people starving as a cause of the American government. This poem is a bit different from other readings that I have encountered because the author separated each sentence and not put everything in paragraphs. This allowed me to not be overwhelmed by the amount of new information I’m learning about and it helps me stay focused. The sentences were all key points explaining what happened in the event and not just unimportant details.
There was a meaningful quote that resonated with me. In the poem, it stated “Everything is in the language we use”. I think that Long Soldier meant that the way people convey their messages can influence others into thinking the same way they did. For example, people praised Abraham Lincoln for the passing of the Emancipation Proclamation but did not bring to light what he did, the same week, to the 38 Dakota people. This can influence the public to forget about the event. In textbooks and readings, students know President Lincoln as the man who helped African American slaves, but not many of the students know about the execution of 38 Dakota men. The quote from the poem reflected that if people don’t choose the right words to convey their message, their stories can be forgotten. In the sentence after the quote, the author described the treaty between the Dakota people and the U.S. government that promised the Dakota people money in exchange for their land. The word “treaty” has a positive connotation, however, the Dakota people didn’t receive the payment from the government. Instead, they were contained in a small territory and were unable to purchase food and resources. Long Soldier wanted the audience to learn to interpret the different stories/perspectives on the same event. Everyone’s version of an event is different.
I enjoy how you compared the action done by Abraham Lincoln to the Dakotian’s to how society treats African Americans. The one thing that I would change is moving that towards the end of the response in order to first give analysis and then give a reference to a similar circumstance. I also very much enjoyed your analysis on the use of the the word treaty. You beautiful explained how the author took something that has a good connotation and changed the point of view.
“I think that Long Soldier meant that the way people convey their messages can influence others into thinking the same way they did.” I agree with this point that you made and I love the way you brought in the example of Lincoln always being portrayed as a good president. The historical events that we learn in school always focus on the best parts but never paint the whole picture. Soldier gave us a new perspective on this event; an event that hasn’t been focused on.
I really resonate with your point of how the author’s spacing allowed you to be less overwhelmed with all the information you were taking in. Your comment on how Abraham Lincoln’s horrible actions were ignored due to his help in freeing African American slaves can apply towards so many politicians and how their shady actions are swept under the rug due to one monumental action that benefits an oppressed group. Finally your comment, “Everyone’s version of an event is different.” is really strong especially when relating it to the poem!