Drum Songs: Glimpses of Dene History

Abel stresses the adaptability of the Dene and their ability to make rational and satisfying choices when faced with a variety of external pressures. By reconstructing important moments in Dene history, she demonstrates how they have been able to maintain a sense of cultural distinctiveness in the face of overwhelming economic, political, and cultural pressures from European newcomers. Her interpretation questions the standard perception that aboriginal peoples in Canada have been passive victims in the colonization process.