Native American, Indian, or American Indian?

What 's the difference (you may ask)? Well, actually, depends on who you are. There are currently nine different definitions of Native Americans. Although many people consider themselves Native American, they do not fit the term "American Indian". The US Government itself only accepts people with 1/4 of a recognized tribe as Native American--imagine the standards for one to be recognized as a n American Indian! All this, though, is done in an effort to minimize the amount of people who will qualify for special statuses and resources.

The weird thing about this minority group is that they are defined by political status and
not purely racial/ethnic status (unlike all others). Native Americans have (the only ethnic group) their own set of laws, treaties, and national government separate from the U.S. Government. They are considered separate from Americans and so are denied many of our culture's wealth. At the same time, their culture is somewhat protected from ever being destroyed.

Many may consider Native Americas a bit loony, but you must consider the customs in their tribes and bands. For example: Apache = body is an empty vessel after death; Lakota = body is sacred after death; Navajo = there is no afterlife. These greatly influence the ways they think and behave.