Customer Reviews

Blood Politics: Race, Culture, and Identity in the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma

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Sturm provides thought-provoking insights into tribal indentity and shows how the idea of "race" changes and evolves over time. A variety of perspectives, sometimes quite humorous, into the obsession of blood quantum. Her stories throughout the book are welcome breaks from the sometimes stuffy academic writing. I think she neglects to mention that government documentatin of people's blood quantum is arbitrary and often incorrect, usually placing people's blood quantum lower than it actually is. Sturm also seems inexplicably harsh on the Cherokee Nation and in particular Ross Swimmer. Other than these complaints, this book is a great exploration of varying viewpoints.

Circe Sturm's "Blood Politics" is a thoughtful look at the factors which go into how the Cherokee people define themselves- as Cherokees, as Indians, as citizens of the Cherokee Nation. Sturm takes on some controversial issues that remain hotbeds of political contention. Particularly on the subject of freedmen, Sturm captures a wide variety of thought.

She is a skilled writer and anthropologist. Some of her writing in her opening was difficult for me to grasp, but this is my fault- not hers. I have a limited background in anthropology, and I am still trying to get my head around the notions of "contradictory consciousness" and "counterhegemonic resistance." Apparently these are standard terms in the academic world of anthropology, but I had to rely on Sturm to point out examples of them in Cherokee culture.

Even if one does not completely follow "Neo-Gramscian Perspectives on Race and Resistance" (a subtitle in her opening), overall the book is easily readable and understandable for the lay person. I came away with a much broader understanding of the concept and power of blood and blood quantum in Cherokee heritage. I also have a better understanding of Cherokee religion, politics, language and social structure.

Sturm includes some stories of her research told in the third person. When she does this, the book reads more like a novel, and I found it to be an entertaining and useful technique in making her point. "Blood Politics" is highly recommended, particularly in light of the recent vote on the status of freedmen in the Cherokee Nation.

Order arrived within a week of purchase. It came in great condition and for a very great price! it was quick and it was easy.