This is a history, not so much of the indigenous peoples of the United States, but of their relationship with the state and with white settlers. Dunbar-Ortiz is a descendent of Native Americans and an activist historian a la Howard Zinn. This work contains very little original history, but condenses the work of other historians, especially Native American historians or historians who study and write about Native Americans without promoting a Eurocentric, colonialist, or pro-government agenda. Dunbar-Ortiz demonstrates how settler colonialism is at the root of the U.S.'s founding and its history through westward expansion, 20th century imperialism, and even the War on Terror, and how it has shaped the relationship between the state/settlers and indigenous peoples in the U.S. and beyond. There are unfortunately a few moments where Dunbar-Ortiz makes claims that appear to be biased and are not well-supported by evidence or citation, but the work is mostly well-cited. It offers many facts and perspectives that had me highlighting, thinking about, and planning to research further. Overall, this is a wonderful work worthy of Zinn's "People's History" label. I learned a great deal from this book. It challenged and changed my views on much of my country's history. It pointed me to other works on these subjects that I look forward to reading. Dunbar-Ortiz also suggests solutions that the government could implement to restore the culture, welfare, and autonomy of native peoples residing within the U.S. borders.

I had no idea just how much damage the Europeans had done to this continent nor was I aware that the indigenous people were so populous.

To anyone who has any sense of justice. For anyone who has a heart, mind and soul that believes we can make a more just and peaceful world. For anyone who has just a smidgen of compassion left in them. For anyone who has a hope left in the survival of our planet and the human race. I recommend this book to all of humanity everywhere.