American Indian Women

PATRICK DEVAL

Publication: Abbeville Press Publishers, 2014, New York

First U. S. edition. 8vo. Originally published in France. Translated from the French by Jane-Marie Todd. Blind stamped cloth, titles stamped in gilt on the spine, pictorial front and rear endpapers, 224 pp., frontispiece, illustrated mostly from photographs, color plates, portraits, map, epilogue, appendices, bibliography, index, image credits. This book weaves together history, anthropology, folklore, and rich visual illustrations to provide a fascinating introduction into a widely overlooked group. The book is divided into three parts. The first explores American Indian cultures before the arrival of European colonists, delving into tribal mythologies, the role of the Clan Mother in society and religion, family customs, and the complex and varied artistic endeavors of American Indian women. The second part examines encounters between American Indian peoples and the Spanish, British, and French colonists, discussing intermarriage, acculturation, and the lives of prominent female figures including Pocahontas and Sacagawea. The final section celebrates the American Indian Renaissance, exemplified by a new generation of female sachems, or chiefs, warriors, negotiators, educators, and advocates for the civil rights of native peoples. An impressive presentation from all respects. Fine, bright copy in dust jacket with a small bruise to bottom edge of front cover.