Cherokee Tragedy: Ridge Family and the Decimation of a People (Civilization of American Indian S.) - Hardcover

Wilkins, Thurman

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0806119667 ISBN 13: 9780806119663

Publisher: University of Oklahoma Press, 1986

Synopsis

Gaming and chiefing. Imposters and freedmen. Distinguished novelist Robert J. Conley examines some of the most interesting facets of the Cherokee world. In 26 essays laced with humor, understatement, even open sarcasm, this popular writer takes on politics, culture, his people’s history, and what it means to be Cherokee.Readers who think they know Conley will find an abundance of surprises in these pages. He reveals historical information not widely known or written about, such as Cherokee Confederate general Stand Watie’s involvement in the infamous Reconstruction treaty forced upon his people in 1866, and he explains his admiration for such characters as Ned Christie and Henry Starr, whom some might consider criminals. From legendary figures Dragging Canoe and Nancy Ward to popular icons like Will Rogers to contemporary “Cherokee Wannabes”—people seeking ancestral roots whether actual or fanciful—Conley traces the dogged persistence of the Cherokee people in the face of relentless incursions upon their land and culture.“Cherokees are used to controversy,” observes Conley; “in fact, they enjoy it.” As provocative as it is entertaining, Cherokee Thoughts will intrigue tribal members and anyone with an interest in the Cherokee people.

About this title

Synopsis

A reprint of the 1986 edition (the first edition was published in 1970 by Macmillan). Wilkins (English, Queens College) tells the sad story drawing on a variety of sources: letters, diaries, memoirs, and other personal papers; federal and state archives; congressional documents; missionary reports and correspondence; contemporary newspapers and per

About the Author

Thurman Wilkins, Professor Emeritus of English of New York's Queens College, was also the author of widely acclaimed biographies of the geologist-surveyor Clarence King and the artist Thomas Moran.

Edition details

• Publisher: University of Oklahoma Press
• Publication date: 1986
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0806119667
• ISBN 13: 9780806119663
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 432