HUM 107 Regional Indigenous Cultures

Humanities 107 is a travel-study experience that recognizes and acknowledges that the college sits on the historic homelands of various indigenous cultures including most recently the Chickasaw Nation. Reflecting the interdisciplinary approach of the Search program, the course will explore the indigenous cultures of the region that extends south from Memphis along the Mississippi River to the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians and east to Moundville, Alabama. In addition to visits to major archaeological sites, dating from the three major periods: archaic, Woodland, and Mississippian periods, the course will examine excerpts from accounts of European explorers and colonizers, including those of De Soto's expedition in 1541, De La Salle’s expedition in 1681-1682, and the term of Manuel Gayoso de Lemos as governor of the Natchez district from 1792 to 1796. Participants will also read and discuss accounts of the forced dislocation and removal of the Chickasaw from their homeland to Oklahoma in 1837-38. This course will feature readings and discussions both prior to and during the trip and meetings with representatives of the Chickasaw Nation.