Meaning: The quote, "The Indians knew that life was equated with the earth and its resources, that America was a paradise, and they could not comprehend why the intruders from the East were determined to destroy all that was Indian as well as America itself," by Dee Brown, encapsulates the deep connection that Native American tribes had with the land and their bewilderment at the actions of European settlers. This quote is from the renowned book "Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee: An Indian History of the American West," written by Dee Brown in 1970. The book is a powerful and poignant account of the systematic destruction of Native American tribes during the westward expansion of the United States in the 19th century.

The quote reflects the profound spiritual and cultural connection that Native American tribes had with the land. For many indigenous communities, the earth was not simply a source of sustenance, but a sacred entity that sustained life and held deep spiritual significance. The concept of the earth as a provider of life was central to their belief systems and way of life. The land, its resources, and the natural environment were all intertwined with their identity and existence.

Furthermore, the quote highlights the perspective of Native Americans who viewed America as a paradise, a land of abundance and natural beauty. The vast and diverse landscape of America provided not only physical sustenance but also a spiritual and cultural sanctuary for indigenous peoples. The land was not only a source of livelihood but also a source of inspiration, tradition, and heritage.

The bewilderment expressed in the quote stems from the inability of Native Americans to comprehend the motivations of the European intruders who sought to dispossess them of their land and destroy their way of life. From the perspective of the indigenous people, the land and its resources were to be respected, cherished, and preserved for future generations. The idea of ownership and exploitation of the land for profit was alien to their cultural ethos.

Dee Brown's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the clash of worldviews and the devastating impact of colonization on Native American communities. The arrival of European settlers marked the beginning of a tragic chapter in the history of indigenous peoples in America. The forced removal from their ancestral lands, the loss of traditional territories, and the decimation of their cultural practices and heritage had profound and lasting consequences.

The quote also sheds light on the broader theme of environmental stewardship and the differing approaches to the utilization of natural resources. While Native American tribes lived in harmony with the land and practiced sustainable resource management, the European settlers brought with them a mindset of exploitation and extraction that led to the degradation of the natural environment.

In conclusion, Dee Brown's quote captures the profound connection between Native American tribes and the land, their perception of America as a paradise, and their perplexity at the destructive actions of the European intruders. It serves as a poignant reflection on the devastating impact of colonization on indigenous communities and the enduring legacy of their spiritual and cultural relationship with the earth.