COCO 36 Alaska: American Dreams and Native Realities
Since the time United States "purchased" Alaska from Russia, this land has been seen by many as the "last frontier" - a place where tough and adventurous Euro-Americans could strike it rich or get away from the negative consequences of civilized living. Using anthropological and historical works as well as fiction, film and other media, the seminar explores the mythology surrounding the "land of the midnight sun." This myth of the "last frontier" - in its development-driven as well as conservationist versions -- is also contrasted with the ways Native Alaskans' have viewed and lived on their land.