| Title | : | Creek Country: The Creek Indians and Their World |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 0807854956 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9780807854952 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Paperback |
| Number of Pages | : | 369 |
| Publication | : | First published December 8, 2003 |
Ethridge begins in 1796 with the arrival of U.S. Indian Agent Benjamin Hawkins, whose tenure among the Creeks coincided with a period of increased federal intervention in tribal affairs, growing tension between Indians and non-Indians, and pronounced strife within the tribe. In a detailed description of Creek town life, the author reveals how social structures were stretched to accommodate increased engagement with whites and blacks. The Creek economy, long linked to the outside world through the deerskin trade, had begun to fail. Ethridge details the Creeks' efforts to diversify their economy, especially through experimental farming and ranching, and the ecological crisis that ensued. Disputes within the tribe culminated in the Red Stick War, a civil war among Creeks that quickly spilled over into conflict between Indians and white settlers and was ultimately used by U.S. authorities to justify their policy of Indian removal.
Creek Country: The Creek Indians and Their World Reviews
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A nice, in-depth look at the Creek and the changes of colonization. The narrative begins in 1796, right around the time that Indian Agents were appearing in Creek territory. There are discussion of changes, social and economic forces, education, diversity, etc. Very well researched from an anthropological standpoint, and one that I appreciate.
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This book provides an intimate an unique look into how the Creek Indians lived throughout the time of the new republic. It begins with the establishment of the US Indian agent and how life changed through acculturation, accommodation, and resistance. Trade patterns, gender roles, and political structure all changed with the redeployment of American citizens. Although much of the land was taken up by illegal means the creeks were still forced to contend with the way that new societies emerged. The primary source for the book is the letters and diary of Benjamin Hawkins who was the United States government representative and former north Carolina senator to take up the process of reforming the Creeks. Hawkins dictated a great deal of life and his notes are very through. Combined with enthonhistorical techniques the reader gets a very interesting view of Creek Society from the inside. Very easy to read and a great start to understanding how the Indians lived in the colonial world.
