49 pages • 1 hour read
Bury My Heart At Wounded Knee: An Indian History of the American West
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Book Brief
509
Book • Nonfiction
American West • 19th century
1970
Adult
15+ years
1160L
Super Short Summary
Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee by Dee Brown details the United States government’s interactions with Native American nations in the Great Plains, Rocky Mountains, and West Coast from 1860 to 1890, presenting its narrative from the perspective of Native American peoples and using primary sources to recount their experiences of dispossession and resistance. The book includes references to warfare, discrimination, and genocide.
Melancholic
Dark
Informative
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
103,825 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Dee Brown's Bury My Heart At Wounded Knee offers a compelling and meticulously researched narrative of the systemic injustices faced by Native Americans in the late 19th century. Praised for its comprehensive and empathetic portrayal, critics note the dense historical detail may overwhelm casual readers. Overall, it remains a poignant and impactful historical account.
Who Should Read Bury My Heart At Wounded Knee?
Readers who appreciate Dee Brown's Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee are generally interested in American history, indigenous cultures, and social justice. They may also enjoy Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States or Charles C. Mann's 1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus.
103,825 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Black Kettle
Black Kettle
A Cheyenne leader known for pursuing a path of diplomacy with the US despite suffering from violent attacks, emphasizing his efforts to secure peace for his people through treaty negotiations.
Red Cloud
Red Cloud
An Oglala Lakota Sioux leader recognized for his pivotal role in resisting US expansion in the Powder River Country, who later navigated the transition towards reservation life while advocating for his people’s rights.
Sitting Bull
Sitting Bull
A prominent Hunkpapa Lakota Sioux leader and symbol of resistance, whose defiance against US encroachment led to major confrontations, and who later sought refuge across the Canadian border.
509
Book • Nonfiction
American West • 19th century
1970
Adult
15+ years
1160L
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