Question

Two of the ways that we know about cultures from the ancient Americas are through indigenous accounts, both oral and written, as well as accounts by Europeans who had direct contact with indigenous people.

a) True
b) False

Answer 1

The statement about learning ancient American cultures through indigenous and European accounts is true. The contrast of perspectives, such as Cortés' and the Aztec accounts and the deliberate destruction of indigenous writings by Europeans, presents a challenge to historians. Recent scholarship shows a growing appreciation for indigenous oral histories and narratives.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that we know about cultures from the ancient Americas through both indigenous accounts and accounts by Europeans is true. Indigenous sources include both oral and written traditions, whereas European accounts offer perspectives from those who had direct contact with indigenous people. Historians face the challenge of interpreting these diverse sources, which often present contrasting narratives, such as the Spanish accounts of Hernán Cortés and the indigenous Aztec accounts. The latter describes the Europeans' behavior as barbaric, highlighting the violence against even unarmed individuals, contrasting sharply with Cortés' depiction of indigenous people welcoming Spanish rule.

The historical record in Latin America was notably altered post-European contact. Indigenous writings were often destroyed by the conquerors, who viewed them as emblematic of a religion and culture they sought to eradicate. The post-conquest manuscripts, heavily influenced by both Indigenous and European styles and languages, eclipse the few pre-Hispanic codices that survived. These codices are essential for understanding the cultural history and perspectives of indigenous peoples.

More recent shifts in historical methodology demonstrate an increased appreciation for indigenous perspectives. This is evident in the analysis of oral histories, which are now recognized not only for their literary qualities but also for their intrinsic cultural and historical values. Early anthropological approaches, often focused on linguistics and philosophy, are being reconsidered, highlighting the importance of indigenous narratives in understanding the past.