Alcoholism: Historial Epidemic

Alcoholism; a devastating plague that has over time, engulfed our society, taking countless precious lives. This disease can be traced back to pre-contact times, when alcohol became a prime aspect of trade between Indigenous and European peoples. When Russian settlers first began sailing to Alaska (populated by Indigenous society) in the 1700’s, they had already has a vast exposure to alcohol. They consumed large amounts of alcohol and were known to sell/trade it in great quantities, therefore the Indigenous society was unable to socially adapt properly due its immediate introduction. Aboriginal peoples were beginning to obtain these large amounts of alcohol in turn for their furs needed by the Europeans.

From the initial introduction to alcohol within Aboriginal communities, it began to be play a large role in violent acts, such as a disturbing episode that took place during the Spring of 1842 that lead to the first prohibition of alcohol distribution from the Russian-America Company and the Hudson’s Bay company to Aboriginal communities, accidents (fatal at times) and countless health issues.  Throughout the nineteenth and twentieth century, alcohol continued to terrorize Aboriginal communities despite ongoing prohibitions, becoming a large problem in itself as well as a link to greater issues.

Cultural confusion has been connected to the amount of alcoholism present in not only the pre-contact era, but in today’s society as well. Indigenous individuals have been subjected to an immense amount of deculturization throughout their history. They have been forced to distance themselves from their language, traditions, and their overall culture. Alcohol was seen as a crutch in the midst of the historical trauma that their culture faced.

The ongoing epidemic of alcoholism during the nineteenth and twentieth century has led to the eventual acceptance of early alcohol-induced deaths.  Injuries and deaths involving alcohol became deemed as “natural occurrences” leading to the institutionalization of these premature deaths in society. Losing someone at a young age to alcohol was not a shock to Indigenous communities during the pre-contact era.

Alcoholism today is referred to as a mental disease and is treated accordingly. Our society has recognized this condition as a serious problem that people of all cultures are exposed to. Institutions have been established to aide in the treatment and support of alcoholics such as Alcoholics Anonymous and rehabilitation centers as well as laws and societal regulations to maintain the control of this common but dangerous substance.

I find it upsetting to think reflect upon the fact that there were no such institutions in the past that assisted the achievement of sobriety. Through my education and personal experiences, I have seen the wrath of alcoholism and I understand how catastrophic its effects can be. During the pre-contact era, the only precautions being taken to reduce alcoholism were the countless prohibitions that were taken into actions, which all had little effect.  I believe in the vital importance of the treatment of alcoholism. It has the potential to ruin lives, families and deeply burden our society, just as it has done to past generations.

Jenna

References

Memorial University of Newfoundland Montesano , P. (2000). ALCOHOL: ITS PAST AND PRESENT ROLE IN THE HEALTH OF NATIVE COMMUNITIES. The Proceedings, 151-155. [Web log post]. Retrieved from http://www.ucalgary.ca/uofc/Others/HOM/Dayspapers2000.pdf#page=151