City planning Anarchism Community development Urban homesteading Indigenous precepts Spirituality
The emergence of modern homesteading is a strategy practiced by people who seek healthier, more sustainable options for their families, both physically and spiritually. The practice dates to the Homestead Act of 1862, however, the practices of tending to and stewarding the land closely resemble those of Indigenous lifestyles dating back much earlier than 1862. Historic literature provides a basis for understanding the implications of the Homestead Act of 1862 and Indigenous teachings, however limited literature exists on the modern-day practice, how it is a strategy for ecological, social, and spiritual restoration, and how it mirrors Indigenous precepts. This research paper includes qualitative data gathered through in-depth interviews with homesteaders and small-scale farmers, ranging from urban to rural practitioners. Although homesteading may be closely tied to the goal of self-sufficiency, my research suggests that community-sufficiency is more foundational and sustainable for the practice. The homesteaders with whom I spoke all share in the sentiments of providing healthier options for their families while fulfilling a longing to live a life that aligns with their values. My findings reveal the challenges and limitations of this study, including the limited demographic that practices this way of life.
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Details
Title
The Homestead Emergence
Creators
Mia Isabella Mariotti
Contributors
Andrew Zitcer (Advisor)
Awarding Institution
Drexel University
Degree Awarded
Master of Science (M.S.)
Publisher
Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Number of pages
viii, 141 pages
Resource Type
Thesis
Language
English
Academic Unit
Urban Strategy; Architecture, Design, and Urbanism; Drexel University; Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design
Other Identifier
991020668806304721
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