Colonialism in D&D

Grumpy Wizard had a post called Colonialism in D&D: A Rebuttal that rebuts a Dwellers of the Forbidden City Post/Poll called Race, Colonialism and Dungeons and Dragons - A Story in Two Parts about Colonialism in D&D. Grumpy Wizard made some really good points, but then closed comments so I figure I'll make a short post out of it, because I have an opinion.

I'll start with a quote from Gary Gygax's B2 the Keep on the Borderlands. This module is not only ranked very high in every poll of modules I've ever seen but because it shipped with the Basic Set for awhile it has been played (and replayed) probably more than any other module. I think it would be fair to say that the module helped form most peoples opinion of what the game was about during its early years.

The Realm of mankind is narrow and constricted. Always the forces ot Chaos press upon its borders, seeking to en-slave its populace, rape its riches, and steal its treasures. If it were not for a stout few, many in the Realm would indeed fall prey to the evil which surrounds them. Yet, there are al- ways certain exceptional and brave members of humanity, as well as similar individuals among its allies — dwarves, elves, and halflings — who rise above the common level and join battle to stave off the darkness which would otherwise overwhelm the land. Bold adventurers trom the Realm set off for the Borderlands to seek their fortune. It is these adventurers who, provided they survive the challenge, carry the battle to the enemy.

Bolding is mine of course. If anyone is the colonialist in this scenario it is the residents of the Caves of Chaos. Just because they drag their women and children along with the invading army doesn't make them victims. D&D is anti-colonialist.