Closing the Indigenous Gap: What can a Symbiosis of Du Boisian Sociology and Indigenous History Offer?

ABSTRACT

This article argues that, despite the gap in Du Bois own writings, Du Bois' theory of colonialism can be used to analyse Indigenous history to much merit. It argues that an understanding of Indigenous history using Du Bois theories is fruitful for understanding Indigenous history and deepening Du Bois’ theories. It discusses the theories that make up Du Bois' main modes of analysis and then applies them to the struggles of Indigenous peoples. It will focus on both Du Bois' economic and psychological theories, namely racial capitalism and double consciousness, and discuss what insights they give us into Indigenous history.