The Arapahoes, who simultaneously occupy the three major divisions of the Great Plains, are typical but the least known of the Plains tribes. Overshadowed by their more hostile allies, the Sioux and Cheyennes, they have been neglected by historians. This book traces their history from prehistoric times in Minnesota and Canada to the turn of the century in Wyoming, Montana, and Oklahoma, when their cultural history ended and adjustment to the white man's way began. It covers their way of life, dealings with traders, treaties, battles, division into branches, and reservation life. There are detailed accounts of the Ghost Dance and peyote cult. A study of the two branches-Southern and Northern-is a dramatic lesson in the effects of acculturation. Forced to accept the white man's way, the Southern people, after losing their ceremonials and tribal lands in Oklahoma, have gradually resigned themselves to the alien culture. The Northern Arapahoes on the Wind River Reservation in Wyoming, however, still cling to their original traditions. They tell their time-honored tales, pour out their souls in music, and dance to their drums much as they did in pre-reservation days-although they dress in the manner of the white man and abide by his regulations. Flat-Pipe, the sacred palladium, said to have come to "our people" when the world began, stays in their safe-keeping, and they honor it in occasional ceremony. The Pipe is the unifying symbol of the two branches of the tribe.

Examines the history, culture, and changing fortunes of the Arapaho Indians.

The Arapaho is a tribe with ancient origins. Their ancestors populated North America and spread their influence throughout the continent. Eventually, their encounters with Europeans challenged their way of life and transformed their communities forever. This book discusses the tribe’s beginnings, its history, and its presence today, celebrating the men, women, and children who have made up the tribe throughout its existence.

First published in 1903 by The Field Columbian Museum, Chicago.

Tous (Hello). Whether you are a friend and student of Indian culture, or a Southern Arapaho tribal member, this book provides an exceptional opportunity to celebrate the trail, the trace, of the Arapaho Tribe. Come travel the Southern Arapahos trace from eastern Asia to the Southern Plains and into their reservation lives. Then accompany their pilgrimage to Cobb Creek and witness their Anglization. Hohou. (Thank you.)

The Northern Arapahoes of the Wind River Reservation contradict many of the generalizations made about political change among native plains people. Loretta Fowler explores how, in response to the realities of domination by Americans, the Arapahoes have avoided serious factional divisions and have succeeded in legitimizing new authority through the creation and use of effective political symbols.

Report (p.1-10) is followed by an Appendix ([ii]+532 p.) containing letters, field dispatches, and military orders on the progress of the Indian Wars in 1862-65, and depositions and letters from Indian Agents in 1865 replying to questions from the Office of Indian Affairs.