The lyrics of "Genocide (The Killing Of The Buffalo)" by Thin Lizzy touch on themes of knowledge, sin, and the mistreatment of Native Americans. The song speaks about the breaking of treaties, the destruction of cultures, and the genocide of the buffalo, illustrating the impact of colonialism on Indigenous peoples.

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Meaning of "Genocide (The Killing Of The Buffalo)" by Thin Lizzy


The lyrics of "Genocide (The Killing Of The Buffalo)" delve into the history of the mistreatment of Native Americans and the decimation of their way of life at the hands of European colonizers. The references to knowledge being deemed dangerous allude to how those in power used ignorance as a tool to manipulate and control others. The killing of the buffalo symbolizes the deliberate destruction of a vital resource that sustained Native American communities, leading to their forced displacement and cultural erasure. Through the haunting repetition of the chorus, the song emphasizes the magnitude of the violence and brutality inflicted upon Indigenous peoples, highlighting the atrocities committed against them. It serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of colonization and the ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous communities today.