TOP 50 Frequently Asked Questions about American Indian tribes — "American Indian or Native American?" | "Tribe or Band?" | "Who is an American Indian?" | "What is Indian Country?" | "Tribal Sovereignty" | "Indian Preference Jobs"...

The True Origin of the Term “Native American”

by Ernie C. Salgado, Jr., Editor in Chief
Soboba Tribal Elder

Have you ever wondered who, where and when the term “Native American” originated?

Now I want to share the truth on how the phrase or expression “Native American” was coined by a handful of California Tribal Leaders in 1975 as a commendation for the nation's Bicentennial 1776-1976 celebration....

How do I know this to be true?

Because I was there.

I was one of the many militant tribal youth from second generation Mission Indian Federation families.

And since I’m old school, I prefer “American Indian” over the term.

FULL ORIGINAL ARTICLE

I am an Indian, American Indian. I prefer 'American Indian' (because) anyone born in the western hemisphere is a 'native American.'

- Russell Means (1939-2012, Republic of Lakotah)

Wokini: Your Personal Journey to Happiness and Self-Understanding

Author: Billy Mills
Publisher: Feather Publishing, 1990
ISBN: 0962794309, 9780962794308

EXCERPT:

In my youth I respected the world and life, I needed not anything but peace of heart;

And yet I changed despite myself and believed in Iktumi's lies.

He seemed to know all the truth, he promised to make me happy.

He made me ask Wakantanka for wealth, that I might have power;

I was given poverty, that I might find my inner strength.

I asked for fame, so others would know me;

I was given obscurity, that I might know myself.

I asked for a person to love that I might never be alone;

I was given a life of a hermit, that I might learn to accept myself.

I asked for power, that I might achieve;

I was given weakness, that I might learn to obey.

I asked for health, that I might lead a long life;

I was given infirmity, that I might appreciate each minute.

I asked Mother Earth for strength, that I might have my way;

I was given weakness, that I might feel the need for Her.

I asked to live happily, that I might enjoy life;

I was given life, that I might live happily.

I received nothing I asked for, yet all my wishes came true.

Despite myself and Iktumi, my dreams were fulfilled,

I am richly blessed more than I ever hoped,

I thank you, Wakantanka, for what you've given me.

BILLY MILLS

Indian name: Makata Taka Hela (respects the earth)
Tribe: Oglala Lakota (Sioux)
Birth year, place: 1938, Pine Ridge, South Dakota
Reservation: Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, SD
Billy Mills Day: May 6th