Why the U.S. Army Tried to Exterminate the Bison
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Provided by: Vox|Published on: April 27, 2021
VideosScientist Reviewed
6789101112
Scientist Reviewed This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- This video describes the history behind the near-extermination of bison in America, prompted by the United States government as settlers and the railroad moved west in the 1800s.
- It addresses the purpose of removing the bison to assist in driving native people off their lands, since they relied on the buffalo for food, clothing, shelter, and tools.
Subjects: Biology, History
Authors: Vox
Region: United States
Languages: English
Teaching Materials
Positives
- This video provides an interdisciplinary examination of species' population endangerment by considering environmental justice, history, and human pressures.
- Excellent photographs and news articles are analyzed and described.
Prerequisites
- There are commercials before the video.
- Students should be familiar with the term "manifest destiny" and the removal of Indigenous peoples as the American West was settled.
- If this source is used in a science classroom, a short discussion of the historical context prior to watching the video will be helpful.
Differentiation & Implementation
- Consider having students rewrite some of the news articles that are referenced from different perspectives: the U.S. Army, an Indigenous person, a U.S. settler, etc.
- Have students work in pairs to discuss their thoughts and feelings related to the government's participation in removing an animal so important to Indigenous people. Prompt them with questions to discuss together.
- Another resource that may be of interest is Indigenous Communities are on the Front Lines of Climate Change.
Scientist Notes
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
Learn about our review process →
