A Social History of Native Residents of Washington, D.C., 1835 to 1973

Author

Rachael K. CassidyFollow
Rachael Cassidy

Publication Date

Summer 5-10-2024

Abstract

This dissertation discusses the long history of Indigenous presence and participation in the history of Washington D.C. Native people have claimed space for their nations inside the U.S. capital city to protect their sovereignty, provide services for their communities, and to reset harmful stereotypical narratives. They used the Indigenous concept of kinship to accomplish these goals. Native Washingtonians have lived in the U.S. capital city since its earliest times and continue to live there today. This research explores the history of Native D.C. through the lives of four individuals, Kangiduta (Sisseton Wahpeton Dakota), Sophie Pitchlynn (Choctaw), Zitkala Sa (Yankton Dakota), and D’Arcy McNickle (Métis). These individuals lived in D.C. during different time periods and through their lives, readers experience the challenges and accomplishments of Native Washingtonians between 1835 and 1973. This research demonstrates the consistent presence of Native peoples, both the local state recognized tribal governments and federally recognized tribal governments—in the U.S. capital city.

Level of Degree

Doctoral

Degree Name

History

Department Name

History

First Committee Member (Chair)

Sam Truett

Second Committee Member

Margaret Connell-Szasz

Third Committee Member

L. Durwood Ball

Fourth Committee Member

Kent Blansett

Language

English

Keywords

Urban Native history, Native D.C., Washington DC, Indigenous History, Native American History, Native Washingtonians

Document Type

Dissertation

Recommended Citation

Cassidy, Rachael K. and Rachael Cassidy. "A Social History of Native Residents of Washington, D.C., 1835 to 1973." (2024). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/hist_etds/391