Colonization In Things Fall Apart

Colonization is defined as the action or process of settling among and establishing control over the indigenous people of an area. The effects of colonization vary due to cultural values and practices, but most native people’s culture was diminished when they were forced to convert to other religions, traditions and values as well as family roles. Therefore, when examining the novel Things Fall Apart, the film Dakota 38 as well as the film Rabbit Proof Fence, it can be further proven that in the wake of colonization, culture can be completely disregarded and in time, diminished.

In the novel Things Fall Apart as well as Dakota 38, many native peoples in those texts were forced to change their beliefs and or religion due to colonization. …show more content…
In the film Dakota 38 there had been tension between Minnesota and the Dakotas beginning in August 1862 and worsened when president Abraham Lincoln had decided to hang the 38 Indians in December. The Dakotas were pushed into Minnesota's traditions and customs as they had colonized, and we unable to grow and establish their own. Especially as they were forced out of Minnesota and to abolish their reservation. In the long run their culture suffered from many obstacles from the Minnesotan authority over them and it was hard to sustain their culture as they were treated unjustly (Dakota 38, 2012). In the film Rabbit Proof fence the three sisters had been taken from their family and lifestyle as the Australian government had tried to colonize and separate people racially. The sisters were forced away from their own traditions and customs and as they diminished from their old ways they had been brought up to new habits and customs. The nuns who run the place had said “This is your new home. We don't use that jabber here. You speak English.” (Rabbit Proof Fence, 2002). They must also obey Mr. Neville or “Mr. Devil” called by the children to attend church and check their skin daily. The sisters when they were forced out of their homeland had to speak only …show more content…
Many people have to learn to adapt to new customs and family values. Throughout the film Rabbit Proof Fence you are able to see how the girls are put through challenges after being removed from their homes. When taken to the new land and forced into new practices the girls are required to speak the language of the people who they are settling with at them time. They struggle to remain in touch with themselves. The girls are persistently looking after each other and lifting up the others spirits, which helps them later return home. Although they face all of this difficulty, one thing remains, and that is the unconditional support and belief in the strength of a family. While in retrospect the novel Things Fall Apart values strength, the society is strong believers in success through power. They believe that family values are based on ability, wealth, and triumph. The family values being well known and following the customs of their society. If you are different from the others you aren’t welcome. Both the novel and film show that is is hard to remain in proximity with your society because the people around you cause you to