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The Impact Of The Dehumanization Of Aboriginal Cultures In Canada

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Aboriginal cultures have not been well-received into white cultures; specifically, when the French and British explorers came to Canada. There were cultural barriers that made the exploration of Canada difficult as well as the interactions between the Aboriginal peoples and the European explorers. This barrier marks the start of the Europeans ability to claim whatever they want for themselves without disagreement or intervention. This European advancement on Aboriginal land and culture then creates tension upon the meeting of the groups. The initial meeting of Aboriginal and European cultures is not a favorable encounter. The Europeans—specifically Hearne—believe that the Aboriginals will succumb to their every need; “[…] but where we should meet with other Indians, who probably would be willing to carry part of our luggage.” (Bennett and Brown 30). This shows that the Europeans have a skewed viewpoint of the Aboriginal peoples and treat them like they are the lesser being. Due to this belief, it creates a superiority complex. There is a dehumanization of Aboriginal peoples in that they are treated like mules—the carrying of the luggage example—and they are viewed as savages; simply because the European explorers do not understand Aboriginal traditions/ways of life/ views. This is shown through this passage within Hearne’s journal; “[…] I endeavoured as much as possible to persuade them from putting their inhuman designs into execution.” (Bennett and Brown 33). Hearne

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