World War II Alaska: Oral Histories

Students will learn about Indigenous scholar, Dr. Holly Miowak Guise and her process in authoring Alaska’s Native Resilience: Voices From World War II. Students will learn about the World War II experiences of Alaskan Native elders through their oral histories (primary sources). The oral histories describe the experiences of the Unangax Internment, being a veteran, in the Territorial Guard, and being a Native child during this time.

Classroom Guide

Essential Questions

  • What is Equilibrium Restoration in the context of World War II Alaska: Oral Histories?
  • Why is it important to learn about the resilience efforts of Alaska Native Peoples?
  • How were Alaska Native Communities impacted by World War II and what are the impacts today?

Standards

  • Alaska State Standards; C3 National Social Studies Standards Grade 9-12 Alaska Social Studies Standards Theme 4: The Myth of the Last Frontier Topic: Resistance and Reform Anchor Standard: The student demonstrates an understanding of: Civics Anchor Standard 8: Processes, Rules, and Laws. Content Standard: Therefore the student is able to: SS.AKH.4.8.1 Evaluate the efficacy of formal and informal colonial policies, their effects on Sovereign Tribal Nations’ ability to self‐govern, and Alaska Native resistance efforts to preserve Tribal sovereignty. Alaska Social Studies Standards Page 111
  • Alaska Cultural Standards D.4. D. Culturally knowledgeable students are able to engage effectively in learning activities that are based on traditional ways of knowing and learning. 4. Gather oral and written history information from the local community and provide an appropriate interpretation of its cultural meaning and significance.