Red Albion: Genocide and English Colonialism, 1622-1646
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Date
2009-06
Authors
Kruer, Matthew, 1981-
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
This thesis examines the connection between colonialism and violence during the
early years of English settlement in North America. I argue that colonization was inherently
destructive because the English colonists envisioned a comprehensive transformation of the
American landscape that required the elimination ofNative American societies. Two case
studies demonstrate the dynamics ofthis process. During the Anglo-Powhatan Wars in
Virginia, latent violence within English ideologies of imperialism escalated cont1ict to
levels of extreme brutality, but the fracturing ofpower along the frontier limited Virginian
war aims to expulsion of the Powhatan Indians and the creation of a segregated society.
During the Pequot War in New England, elements of violence in the Puritan worldview
became exaggerated by the onset of societal crisis during the Antinomian Controversy. The
resulting climate of fear unified the colonies and created an ideological commitment to the
genocide of the Pequots.
Description
viii, 170 p. A print copy of this thesis is available through the UO Libraries. Search the library catalog for the location and call number.
Keywords
Great Britain -- Colonies -- America, Colonialism, Imperialism