Osceola and the Great Seminole War: A Struggle for Justice and Freedom
Praise forOsceola and the Great Seminole War“It’s a fascinating history, touching on the complex relationships among white, black, and Native Americans in the contested territory we now know as Florida... Hatch’s meticulous research is evident in his depiction of Seminole village life and his detailed descriptions of conferences and battles.”--Boston Globe“Sitting Bull, Geronimo and Crazy Horse are well known to every schoolchild. Hatch deftly brings Osceola to the pantheon of legendary Native American leaders.”--Kirkus Reviews“Engaging, well-researched… This important book adds to our understanding of the shameful mistreatment of Native Americans and their resistance.”--Publishers Weekly“The Seminole tribe of Florida had an origin as complex and tragic as the history of race in America. The Creek Indians of Alabama, escaped black slaves, and Muskogee-speaking natives of Florida together made up the tribe which took its name from the Spanish word for ‘fugitives’ or ‘wild men’. They were united by a fierce independence and were led by a man of great natural gifts—named Billy Powell at birth, and known to history as Osceola—as varied in his background as the tribe he led. His story, stirring and sad in equal measure, is now told by Thom Hatch in this new history of the Seminole ordeal.”—Thomas Powers,Los Angeles TimesBook Prize winner and National Book Critics Circle finalist forThe Killing of Crazy Horse“With admirable scholarship and fresh and exciting detail, Thom Hatch tells the epic story of young Billy Powell, who embraced his Native American heritage and entered history as Osceola, leader of the Seminoles. Telling of his fight for his people, Hatch demonstrates convincingly why Osceola deserves a place in the pantheon with Cochise, Tecumseh, and Sitting Bull.”—A. J. Langguth, author ofDriven West: Andrew Jackson and the Trail of Tears to the Civil WarPraise forBlack Kettle: The Cheyenne Chief Who Sought Peace but Found War“A thorough picture . . . Hatch cares about Black Kettle and the things he attempted to accomplish.”—The Oklahoman“A fresh and comprehensive reassessment of Black Kettle… A welcome addition to studies of the American West.”—Booklist