Customer Reviews

Trail to Wounded Knee: The Last Stand of the Plains Indians 1860-1890 (National Geographic)

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When I first looked at this book I thought it would be either a white man's history of the American west or an apologists view of our failed Indian policies of the 19th century. But as I delved into it deeper, I was impressed with Herman Viola's knowledge and writing style. He is director of a Smithsonian division and uses his skills to write a history that is neither pro-imperialism nor apologetic. The Indian wars were a disgrace to American "foreign" policy but those of us living in the 21st century need an accurate account of them to allow us to come to terms with our own history.

Since National Geographic published the book there are plenty of maps and photographs to add life to the book. This is not a dry old history book but is meant to be read and used as reference for further research into the subject. It is a good companion to the Dee Brown classic "Bury my Heart at Wounded Knee" though I doubt the author really tried to dispell any points Dee Brown may have made. The Trail to Wounded Knee is an important book that provides insight into our past. For this reason anyone interested in Indian policy or 19th century American history should seriously consider reading this book.