Colonialism and Effect on Aboriginal Self-Government

Colonialism and Effect on Aboriginal Self-government

Since the first contact between European peoples and the Indian peoples, the relationship between governments has generally evolved through several distinct stages.

Alliance (1600-1814) From early settlement to the Royal Proclamation of 1763 the relationship was characterized by partnership based on trade and military alliance.

Marginalization (1763-1923) Partnership gave way to a policy of extinguishing Indian peoples occupation of the land in advance of settlement. Indian peoples were relegated to the margins of Canadian society.

Wardship (1868-1969) With the signing of treaties and the first Indian Act the relationship became one of imposed wardship through the reserve system, as the government sought to assimilate Indian peoples into Canadian society.

Move Towards Self-Sufficiency (1969-present) Indian peoples rejection of the assimilation-oriented 1969 White paper marked the end of wardship. Since 1969, the relationship has been characterized by movement towards self- determination and self-government based upon a reassertion of Indian peoples rights and status as First Nations. Stage 1- Separate Worlds

Stage 2- Cooperation

Stage 3- Displacement and Assimilation

Stage 4- Negotiation and Renewal