I highly recommend Professor Benjamin Madley's seminar on the New History of American Indian Studies to anyone interested in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the histories and historiography surrounding Indigenous peoples in the United States. This class offers a selection of thoughtful and engaging readings that challenge students to critically engage with the contributions made by both Native and non-Native scholars in the field of Indigenous history. By delving into these readings, students will have the opportunity to explore the advancements made in shaping the narratives and understanding of Indigenous peoples throughout history.

This seminar stands out for three compelling reasons:

The seminar encourages thought-provoking dialogue among classmates and the professor. Engaging in these discussions provides valuable insights into how Native peoples are perceived both within and outside the United States. As a Native person from outside the US, I gained a fresh perspective on Indigenous peoples of the US.

Professor Madley goes the extra mile by inviting the actual authors of the readings to engage in discussions with the students. In addition, he includes his own book and gives his own talk during that week. This unique opportunity allows for in-depth conversations about the authors' thoughts, writing processes, and the impact of their work. It offers a deeper appreciation for the creation and reception of books on marginalized histories and peoples, particularly those related to US, Indigenous peoples.

While the focus of the class is on the histories and historiography of American Indians, Professor Madley ensures that the course caters to students' individual interests. This means that students can explore subjects aligned with their own research topics. Additionally, the professor provides professional feedback to help improve writing skills and offers support for those interested in pursuing a career in academia.

In conclusion, regardless of whether the course directly aligns with your core research topics, I highly recommend taking this seminar to learn about the history of Native peoples in the United States. The class not only offers valuable insights but also provides opportunities for personal and professional growth in writing and future academic pursuits. It is a course that I would recommend to both graduate and undergraduate students.