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Editorial: Deloria changed how America views Indians
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
"When asked "Didn't you used to be Vine Deloria Jr.?" Deloria, the noted Native American scholar, once quipped, "I say I gave that up because it didn't pay."
It was vintage Deloria, using humor to make a point. The writer and University of Colorado history professor, who died Sunday at age 72, changed how America views Indians. His 1969 book, "Custer Died for Your Sins" challenged the usual version of U.S. history by showing the Indian side of the story and explaining Indian tribes as living cultures, not museum relics. He changed not only what non-Indians thought about Indians, but also how Indians saw themselves. More than a book, "Custer" was a manifesto for a new generation of American Indian leaders."
Get the Story:
Editorial: Vine Deloria Jr., 1933-2005
(The Denver Post 11/16)
Indian Country Today Articles from January 10, 2005:
Wilma
Mankiller: An original thinker with a warrior's spirit Suzan
Shown Harjo: Selective memories of Vine Deloria Jr.Faith
Spotted Eagle: Deksi (Uncle) Vine Charlie
Wilkins: Visionary thinker and wordsmith par excellenceHank
Adams: A Vine Deloria Jr. collaboration: The first decadeJohn
Mohawk: Vine Deloria Jr.'s unfolding legacy Philip
Deloria: Tales of a remarkable fatherNorbert
Hill: A hero to many
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Column: Vine
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