‘Stolen Land’ Claim Oversimplifies North America’s History of Tribal Warfare

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RICH LOWRY: ‘Stolen land’ charge ignores human history

A Pop Star’s Words Ignite Historical Debate (Image Credits: Unsplash)

Los Angeles – Billie Eilish’s pointed remark at the Grammys about “no one is illegal on stolen land” highlighted a persistent critique of America’s origins amid cheers from the audience.[1][2]

A Pop Star’s Words Ignite Historical Debate

The singer’s anti-immigration enforcement statement during the February 1 event captured attention, linking modern border policies to past land disputes. Supporters applauded, yet the comment prompted pushback from those who view it as an oversimplification. Critics maintained that such rhetoric distorts the multifaceted story of territorial control in North America. Long before European settlers arrived, the continent witnessed relentless struggles among indigenous groups. This backdrop challenges the notion of static, ancient claims to territory.[1]

Pop culture moments often amplify broader ideological tensions. Eilish’s words echoed sentiments popular in certain academic and progressive circles. However, they overlooked patterns of displacement that predated colonial times. Historians pointed to books like Jeff Fynn-Paul’s “Not Stolen” to underscore these dynamics. The exchange underscored how history informs today’s conversations on sovereignty.[2]

Pre-Colonial Conflicts Shaped the Continent

North America before Europeans featured no fixed borders but a landscape of ongoing rivalries. Tribes vied for dominance through warfare and migration,…

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Author : Matthias Binder

Publish date : 2026-02-10 22:12:00

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