They Came but Could Not Conquer: The Struggle for Environmental Justice in Alaska Native Communities

Diane J. Purvis highlights the work of Indigenous peoples in Alaskas small rural villages, who have faced incredible odds throughout history yet have built political clout fueled by vigorous common cause in defense of their homes and livelihood. They Came but Could Not Conquer presents twelve environmental crises that occurred when isolated villages were threatened by a governmental monolith or big business, and in each, Native peoples rallied together to protect their land, waters, resources, and a way of life against the bulldozer of unwanted, often dangerous alterations labeled as progress.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 314 pages
Publication date: 01 May 2024
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

Diane J. Purvis, in her book "They Came but Could Not Conquer," sheds light on the remarkable resilience and activism of Indigenous peoples in small rural villages in Alaska. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout history, these communities have built significant political clout through their united efforts in defense of their homes and livelihoods. Beginning with the transition from Russian to American occupation, Alaska Natives have been engaged in battles with oil and gas corporations, opposing U.S. plans to detonate thermonuclear bombs near Native villages, challenging political initiatives to flood Native homes, seeking compensation for the Exxon Valdez oil spill disaster, and challenging federal fishing restrictions that disrupted their traditional subsistence paths. Purvis highlights twelve environmental crises that occurred when isolated villages were threatened by governmental monoliths or big business. In each case, Native peoples rallied together to protect their land, waters, resources, and way of life against the forces of unwanted and often dangerous alterations labeled as progress. Through compelling narratives, Purvis shares the inspiring stories of individuals who, despite having little influence over big business and regulations, were able to successfully defend their traditional lands and waterways.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496237576