What is the term for the initial contact period when outside forces may harm or exploit native populations?

The term that describes the initial contact period when outside forces may harm or exploit native populations is referred to as the "Shock Phase." This phase highlights the immediate and often violent disruptions that occur when indigenous communities encounter external forces, such as colonial powers or exploitative entities. During this phase, native populations experience profound disorientation and trauma due to the sudden changes brought about by external influences, including disease, violence, displacement, and a breakdown of social structures.

In this context, understanding the implications of the Shock Phase is crucial for recognizing the long-term consequences of colonization and intercultural contact on native populations. The experiences during this phase can set the stage for ongoing struggles, cultural loss, and resistance movements that follow as communities navigate their changed circumstances. This term captures the urgency and intensity of the initial encounters that shape the trajectories of indigenous groups in the wake of external contact.