The Omissions in Historical Narratives: Why Are the Buffalo Soldiers Blamed?

Historical narratives often reflect the perspective of the victors, particularly when it comes to complex and often contentious periods such as American history. One aspect of this narrative often overlooked is the reciprocal violence and atrocities committed by both Native Americans and the settlers and soldiers during the 19th century. This article aims to delve into why these aspects of history are not often acknowledged, and whether this omission affects the current discourse on reparations.

The Role of Victors in Writing History

Historically, the victors write the narrative. This principle holds true even in a society as ostensibly diverse as the United States. The narrative of the United States is far from neutral; it often portrays Native Americans as the helpless victims of ruthless colonialism. However, this perspective often overlooks the actions taken by Native Americans themselves, specifically the Native Americans of the Great Plains, against settlers and other Native tribes. This omission is not just an academic oversight but also serves a purpose in maintaining a certain societal harmony by avoiding a deeper examination of historical grievances.

The Peacekeepers vs. the Victims of Violence

The Buffalo Soldiers, a unit of the United States Army composed primarily of African American soldiers, played a vital role in the American West during the late 19th century. They fought in conflicts against Native American tribes such as the Kiowa, Comanche, and Cheyenne. However, the narrative often surrounding the Buffalo Soldiers does not delve into their actions, perhaps to avoid a more critical look at the nature of these conflicts. This silence is peculiar because the actions of the Buffalo Soldiers are often seen as a symbol of racial progress and valor, yet their interactions with Native Americans, albeit often necessary for frontier security, are not fully elucidated.

Why the Descendants of Native American Tribes are Not 'Entitled' to Reparations?

A common argument against advocating for reparations for the descendants of Native American tribes is that it’s unclear why these descendants should receive reparations from the descendants of settlers and militias, including the Buffalo Soldiers, who took actions against their ancestors. This argument reflects a misconception about the complexities of historical causality and intergenerational responsibility. The descendants of the settlers and soldiers, as the products of historical actions, bear a moral and social responsibility to address the injustices of the past. Reparations are not just about financial compensation but also about addressing the systemic inequalities and patterns of behavior that have persisted over generations.

Historical Context and Evidence

There is evidence suggesting that both Native Americans and Buffalo Soldiers committed atrocities, albeit in different contexts. For instance, during the Indian Wars of the late 19th century, both parties engaged in violent confrontations. The narrative often painted by historians and popular media tends to focus more on the actions of the settlers and soldiers, while the actions of the Native Americans are less frequently discussed. A balanced historical inquiry would include accounts from both sides to provide a more comprehensive understanding of these conflicts.

Why the Narrative is Opaque

The reason why the atrocities committed by the Buffalo Soldiers are not well-known or widely acknowledged can be attributed to several factors. First, the narrative of the United States is often one of progress and triumph, where military units like the Buffalo Soldiers are portrayed as heroes and protectors. Their role as peacekeepers is often celebrated, which might overshadow discussions of any potential excesses or atrocities. Second, the complexity of historical narratives, especially those involving indigenous groups, cannot always be neatly simplified. The interactions between Native Americans and the Buffalo Soldiers were multifaceted and at times contradictory. Lastly, the modern descendants of both the Native Americans and soldiers often seek peace and unity over historical reprisals.

Conclusion

The absence of certain historical narratives does not mean they did not happen. It means that our perspective is filtered through the lens of victors, and the acknowledgment of all parties' actions is crucial for a more nuanced understanding of our shared history. The narrative of the Buffalo Soldiers, while highlighting their valor, should also include the complexities of their actions and their roles in the broader context of the American West. This balanced perspective could contribute to a more inclusive and just society, where the rights and contributions of all Americans are respected and acknowledged.