Ecology is defined as the interconnections between human and non-human beings. Ecology addresses all of life. The theme of ecology is common in American literature. This is the case of the memoir “Black Elk Speaks” written in 1932. “Black Elk Speaks” tells the story of a member of the Sioux tribe and a relative of Crazy Horse, named Black Elk. Black Elk witnessed the Battle of Little Big Horn in 1876. Throughout his memoir, Black Elk recounts the horrors he witnessed during what was not meant to be a battle. Black Elk depicts his spirituality by standing up to defend his people against the inhumane treatment meted out to them by American soldiers. He puts on what he calls a “sacred shirt” (440). “There is a spotted eagle lying on its back, and the dawn star was on the left shoulder. . .” (440). Through his vivid and vivid descriptions, the reader can imagine Black Elk's attire during the battle. The use of descriptive words allows the reader to also identify Black Elk as a very spiritual and loyal member of the tribe. The theme of genocide is also presented in the memoir. According to Merriam-Webster, genocide is defined as the deliberate and systematic destruction of a racial, political, or cultural group (merriam-webster.com). Native Americans were persecuted and attacked because of their beliefs. Although not directly stated, it is believed that American soldiers were disarming Native Americans because they feared a riot would break out. Throughout history, many cases of genocide exist; however, some are worse than others. The tension caused by the Native Americans allowed American soldiers to fear them and their beliefs. When the memoir first fell into the middle of paper......into a deep coma. The town begins to suspect witchcraft, and the girls all agree and begin to rally around the accusations. Their first victim was Tituba, a maid from Barbados believed to be a witch. Several residents of the town are accused of being witches, simply because their lifestyle was different from what the town was accustomed to. Because of their beliefs, this group of people were brought to court and convicted of witchcraft. At that time, witchcraft was considered a crime and the punishment was hung on the gallows. The example of genocide is that of “witches” accused of witchcraft because they chose to live differently from the norms of society. Additionally, due to their spirituality, the townspeople were afraid of what might happen if they allowed these "witches" to reside in their Christian town..