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The Importance Of Citizenship In 'Nobody Knows Your Name'

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Citizenship is recognized as a framework of values with an invisible code explaining how those values can be used to better oneself. Diversity was born through the unique identity of each and every being in the world and each individual is marked with various differences that define both personality and character. The literal definition of a citizen is a native or naturalized member of a state or nation who owes allegiance to its government and is entitled to its protection. Unfortunately, even citizens in American society have been marginalized into groups because of who they, subsequently segregating the entire nation. Layli Long Soldier, author of “38” and Eula Biss, author of “Nobody Knows Your Name,” attempt to uncover the true meaning of citizenship with comprehensive examinations of real life experiences. Both authors redefine the underlying meaning of being a citizen with eye opening pieces that expose the corruption within the country.
Layli Long Soldier uses a powerful poetic message to analyze the irony in American History. Soldier illustrates the story of the Dakota 38, a group of native americans living amongst United States territory in peace, until series of events industrialized one group of people while also destroying the home of other groups of people. A conflict of land distribution, money and power crippled the Dakota as they were sucked dry out of resources into America's greed for a more vast empire. Encouraged by that history, Soldier depicted the

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