DISMANTLING
THE DOCTRINE OF DISCOVERY
International Conference
What is the Doctrine of Discovery?
Video: Arizona Forum on Impact of the Doctrine of Discovery
Arizona Forum: full video
Various scholars and community leaders discuss the Doctrine in this full-length recording of the Open Forum on Impacts of the Doctrine of Discovery.
Professor Miller discusses the history of the Doctrine and how various legal structures and religious declarations have been used throughout colonial history to legitimize the practice of Conquest and Domination.
Steve Newcomb on religious and legal repercussions
Newcomb explores the legal implications of the Doctrine of Discovery. He charts the Doctrine from its origins in religious law through the centuries to its impact on current human rights law and current struggles for sovereignty.
Websites and Blogs
This website offers a brief history of the Doctrine, as well as access to a study group that meets regularly to discuss the subject.
This site has a detailed history of the Doctrine, specifically discussing its religious and legal implications. A good supplement to Steve Newcomb's talk above.
UNPFIP Network
A site dedicated to continuing the discussions originating from the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues. Contains the full text of the landmark "United Nations Preliminary Study on the Doctrine of Discovery."
Books and Articles
UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
In 2007, the United Nations passed this historic Declaration. It serves as a non-binding agreement between signatory States codifying the rights for Indigenous Peoples within their nation.
Book: Pagans in the Promised Land by Steve Newcomb
An important text that gives an overarching history of the doctrine and its religious underpinnings.
The State of Native America ed. M. Annette Jaimes
This groundbreaking anthology gives a sweeping overview of many issues confronting Native American communities including treaty rights, environmental degradation, and cultural appropriation.
Related Events
Indigenous Peoples, Truth and Reconciliation Symposium
Video recordings of the panels at the symposium held at U Mass Amherst on October 2. 2012.
Conference Report: Doctrine of Discovery Seminar
A report of the proceedings from last year's Seminar on the Doctrine of Discovery held at Thompson Rivers University.