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Zaglauer, Leslie J., M.A., December, 1995 Sociology

The Kawaiisu of South-Central California: Creating a New
Identity (121 pp.)

Chairperson: Jill Belsky

This research represents an introduction to the recent
history and experiences of the Kawaiisu of south-central
California. Using phenomenological concepts of identity
construction and culture as strategy, this thesis traces
over five generations of Kawaiisu individuals. It
represents three different families, each telling in their
own words about their life experiences. Preceding research
of Kawaiisu people has focused upon the vanishing material
culture. In contrast, this research views traditional
Kawaiisu culture as the basis of strategy for action which
has facilitated Kawaiisu survival. Additionally, through
their experiences, the socially constructed nature of
identity and culture emerges.

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