The Native Races [of the Pacific states], Volume 2, Civilized Nations

"The Native Races [of the Pacific States], Volume 2, Civilized Nations" by Hubert Howe Bancroft is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work explores the social structures, cultures, and histories of various civilizations that arose in the Pacific States, particularly in the context of their development from savage to civilized states. It examines the notions of civilization and savagism, providing a comprehensive look at different indigenous groups, including the Aztecs and Mayas, alongside their governance, religious practices, and daily life. The opening of the text introduces fundamental definitions surrounding the concepts of savagism and civilization. Bancroft argues that these terms are relative and illustrate a continuum of human progress rather than absolute classifications. He dives into the principles that guide the progress of societies, discussing the dual nature of man and the interplay of good and evil in the journey towards civilization. This opening framework sets the stage for the detailed ethnographic and historical analysis that follows, revealing the complexities of cultural development and the factors that influence the transition from primitive to advanced societal structures.

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