Karen, Really, the persistent use of smallpox-infested blankets as "gifts" from the whites to the Native Americans was, indeed, genocide. Consider that if during the "current unpleasantness in the Middle East" germs/chemicals, etc., were utilized? Would it not be considered genocide? It is not called "germ warfare" for nothing. It was developed as a fast and dirty way of eliminating populations without the necessity for so much combat. And yes, that is the correct definition of genocide: "One group of people puposely killing another group because of their race"...and to acquire their land. Remember that the white man believed fervently in Territorial Imperative. But remember this too, most of us are the combination of many cultures and we need to remember that there is nothing wrong in admitting a past wrongdoing by one's ancestors (after all WE did not do it!) and moving on. Linda > I'm sorry you feel that way, Karen. I stand by my statement that it was > genocide. The definition is one group of people purposely killing another group > because of their race.