This paper investigates the specific pathways through which colonial processes have contributed to contemporary disparities in health between indigenous and non-indigenous peoples in Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the USA. After considering pertinent issues in defining indigeneity, the author focuses on operationalising colonisation as a driver of indigenous health, with reference to the developing scholarship on historical trauma. Conceptualisations of coloniality vis-à-vis health and their critiques are examined. Intersections with racism are canvassed, with decolonisation explored as a potential solution. The paper concludes by examining frames for explicating indigenous disadvantage and exploring implications for settler indigenous relations into the future.
