A history classic, Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee tells the story of white man 'winning' the American West from the Indian's perspective. Focusing on the years 1860-1890, each chapter looks at a different tribe (and geographic region) and shows how the oncoming tide of white settlers, soldiers, and government officials deceived, subjugated, mistreated, and ultimately defeated the Indians across the continent. Often claimed to be done in the name of 'civilizing' the 'savage' tribes, it's clear that it was really done for resources (minerals or land)- the white man's greed was insatiable, and they had no qualms altering or ignoring earlier treaties with the tribes (or killing them outright) when they felt compelled to do so.
The book is an overview, and as such covers the following tribes:
- Navahos, various Sioux tribes, Cheyennes, Arapahos, Apache, Modocs, Kiowas, Comanches, Nez Perces, Poncas, and Utes
In the following geographic regions:
- California,Oregon, Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Kansas, and the Dakotas
And concerns the following famous personalities (both white and Indian):
Sherman, Custer, Buffalo Bill, Kit Carson, Red Cloud, Sitting Bull, Crazy Horse, Geronimo, and Quanah Parker
The book was so very sad. I knew the Indians were mistreated, but not to the extent revealed by the book. This should be required reading.
Rating: A
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