The Victorian era was not exactly beneficial to Native Americans. This was the era of the "Indian Wars," broken treaties, the Trail of Tears, and the steady relocation of native tribes to reservations. It was an era that marked the end of much Native American culture.
Ironically, however, it is also the period that brings us some of the best information about that culture, because it was the last period in which Native American tribes and cultures could be studied more or less as they were. Authors like Frederick Schwatka and artists like Frederic Remington bring us detailed accounts of Native American culture, society, and customs that it would never be possible to gather again.
One of the best sources of articles on Native American cultures is Century Magazine. Here you'll find Frank Cushing's lengthy account of his "adventures among the Zuni," Frederic Remington's visit with the Sioux, and Alice Fletcher's remarkable series on the culture of the Omaha. You'll also find accounts of campaigns, including a detailed description of Custer's self-inflicted disaster, and a personal look at Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce.
As always, one must be prepared for the fact that Victorian articles on any ethnic group may not always be "politically correct." However, whilst Native Americans may not have fared well in the real world in Victorian times, they actually tended to get better press than most other ethnic groups!
- Native Americans
- Tribes of Alaska, Canada & the Pacific Northwest
- Tribes of the Southwest & Mexico
- Other Tribes & Regions; The Omaha
- Government Policies, Missions & Battles
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