"From the Deep Woods to Civilization" we will hear of a single-hearted quest throughout eighteen years of adolescence and early maturity, for the attainment of the modern ideal of Christian culture. It is clearly impossible to tell the whole story, but much that cannot be told may be read "between the lines." The broad outlines, the salient features of an uncommon experience are here set forth in the hope that they may strengthen for some readers the conception of our common humanity. "Indian Boyhood," presents the incredible adventurous childhood and youth which were a part of the free wilderness life of the first American — a life that is gone forever. By dint of much persuasion, the story has now been carried on from the point of that plunge into the unknown with which the first book ends, a change so abrupt and so overwhelming that the boy of fifteen "felt as if he were dead and travelling to the spirit land." In his second autobiography
'From deep woods to civilization' continues Eastman's captivating autobiographical work after Indian boyhood, telling the story of his years during school and into his life as a doctor. One of the highest educated Indians of his time, through his social work and his writings he was one of the best-known Indians of the early 20th century.
In the sequel to Indian Boyhood, Eastman tells of his departure from the reservation at age 15 to receive his education among whites, his experiences as a reservation physician at the Wounded Knee massacre, and of his time in Washington, D.C., where he held a succession of government positions.
"Indian Boyhood," presents the incredible adventurous childhood and youth which were a part of the free wilderness life of the first American — a life that is gone forever. By dint of much persuasion, the story has now been carried on from the point of that plunge into the unknown with which the first book ends, a change so abrupt and so overwhelming that the boy of fifteen "felt as if he were dead and travelling to the spirit land." In his second autobiography "From the Deep Woods to Civilization" we will hear of a single-hearted quest throughout eighteen years of adolescence and early maturity, for the attainment of the modern ideal of Christian culture. It is clearly impossible to tell the whole story, but much that cannot be told may be read "between the lines." The broad outlines, the salient features of an uncommon experience are here set forth in the hope that they may strengthen for some readers the conception of our common humanity.
In the CHARLES EASTMAN Premium Collection, readers are presented with an insightful exploration of Native American culture and history through the works of Charles A. Eastman. Through his literary style, Eastman brilliantly captures the essence of Indian life, paying tribute to the heroes and chieftains of Native American tribes while delving into the spiritual beliefs and traditions of his people. His rich descriptions and vivid storytelling bring to life the struggle and resilience of the Native American experience, offering readers a glimpse into a world often overlooked in mainstream literature. With a mix of autobiography, history, and philosophy, Eastman's works provide a comprehensive look at the complexities of Native American identity and heritage. Charles A. Eastman, also known as Ohiyesa, was a Santee Dakota physician and writer who dedicated his life to bridging the gap between Native American and mainstream American culture. Born into a traditional Dakota family but later immersed in white society, Eastman's unique background lends authenticity and depth to his portrayal of Native American life. His personal experiences and deep connection to his heritage shine through in his writings, making him a respected voice in Native American literature. I highly recommend the CHARLES EASTMAN Premium Collection to readers interested in exploring the rich tapestry of Native American culture and history through the eyes of a knowledgeable and passionate storyteller.
"Indian Boyhood" (1902) was the literary debut of Charles A. Eastman (Ohiyesa), a Santee Sioux whose eleven books aimed at bringing whites and Indians closer together. The favorable reception of the autobiographical Indian Boyhood would lead him to write such classic works as "Old Indian Days" (1907), "Wig warn Evenings: Sioux Folk Tales Retold" (with Elaine Goodale Eastman, 1909), "The Soul of the Indian" (1911), "From the Deep Woods to Civilization" (1916), and "Indian Heroes and Great Chieftains" (1918), all reprinted as Bison Books. At the beginning of "Indian Boyhood" Eastman recalls the 1862 Sioux Uprising in Minnesota that sent his family into exile in Canada. He describes his childhood there, which ended when his father, who had been presumed dead, appeared to take him back to the United States. An Indian boy's training, child-hood games, harvesting and feasts, legends told around a campfire--Eastman relates all aspects of the rich traditional life of the Santee Sioux, which had already passed away by the time this book was published.
"Indian Boyhood" (1902) was the literary debut of Charles A. Eastman (Ohiyesa), a Santee Sioux whose eleven books aimed at bringing whites and Indians closer together. The favorable reception of the autobiographical Indian Boyhood would lead him to write such classic works as "Old Indian Days" (1907), "Wig warn Evenings: Sioux Folk Tales Retold" (with Elaine Goodale Eastman, 1909), "The Soul of the Indian" (1911), "From the Deep Woods to Civilization" (1916), and "Indian Heroes and Great Chieftains" (1918), all reprinted as Bison Books. At the beginning of "Indian Boyhood" Eastman recalls the 1862 Sioux Uprising in Minnesota that sent his family into exile in Canada. He describes his childhood there, which ended when his father, who had been presumed dead, appeared to take him back to the United States. An Indian boy's training, child-hood games, harvesting and feasts, legends told around a campfire--Eastman relates all aspects of the rich traditional life of the Santee Sioux, which had already passed away by the time this book was published.
The Essential Writings of Charles Eastman is a collection of insightful and thought-provoking works by the renowned Native American author. Eastman's writing style is characterized by its clarity, rich detail, and deep introspection. His works delve into themes of cultural identity, spirituality, and the interconnectedness of all living beings, making them relevant even in today's society. The book provides a glimpse into the life and experiences of a man straddling two worlds, offering a unique perspective on Native American history and culture. Eastman's literary contributions play a crucial role in reshaping the narrative surrounding Native Americans and their place in American society. The Essential Writings of Charles Eastman is a must-read for anyone interested in Native American literature, history, or spirituality, as it offers valuable insights and a profound understanding of the human experience.
A full-blooded Sioux Indian describes his childhood experiences and training as a warrior in the 1870's and 1880's until he was taken to live in the white man's world at age fifteen.
"The most prominent literary spokesman of the Indian ... his achievement will remain unique." -New York Medical Journal "Many a thrilling episode ... a gripping lesson in each chapter ... interesting." -American Indian Magazine "Breaking down prejudices and destroying old enmities ... a good story delightfully told." -The Independent "Indian Boyhood," published first in 1902 and in many subsequent editions, pictured the first of three distinct periods in the life of the writer of this book, Charles Alexander Eastman. His childhood and youth were a part of the free wilderness life of the first American - a life that is gone forever! Eastman's 1916 book "From the Deep Woods to Civilization Begins" where the writer's earlier book "Indian Boyhood" left off, when he left his wild life to enter mission school, and continues thru his years at Beloit and Dartmouth, his medical studies at Boston university and his subsequent work for his people as government physician and Y. M. C. A. Indian secretary. This simple sincere account not only covers the facts in the life of this nearly full-blooded Sioux Indian, but gives glimpses of his feelings, his impressions gathered in college and later life, and his aspirations for himself and his people. In this unique story of his school days Dr. Eastman tells of his upward climb to civilization. It was not until he had entered college that the full meaning of civilization flashed upon the mental vision of this Indian youth. "I saw it as the development of every natural resource;" he tells us, "the broad brotherhood of mankind; the blending of all languages and the gathering of all races' under one religious faith." When this realization came he says a little later, "I took off my soft moccasins and put on the heavy and clumsy but durable shoes." There is a wealth of meaning for the Indian in that last sentence. Eastman writes of his Indian tribal life: "During the summer and winter of 1871, the band of Sioux to which I belonged - a clan of the Wah'petons, or "Dwellers among the Leaves" - roamed in the upper Missouri region and along the Yellowstone River. In that year I tasted to the full the joy and plenty of wild existence. I saw buffalo, elk, and antelope in herds numbering thousands. The forests teemed with deer, and in the "Bad Lands" dwelt the Big Horns or Rocky Mountain sheep. At this period, grizzly bears were numerous and were brought into camp quite commonly, like any other game. "IN the summer of 1910, I accepted a commission to search out and purchase rare curios and ethnological specimens for one of the most important collections in the country. Very few genuine antiques are now to be found among Indians living on reservations, and the wilder and more scattered bands who still treasure them cannot easily be induced to give them up. My method was one of indirection. I would visit for several days in a camp where I knew, or had reason to believe, that some of the coveted articles were to be found. After I had talked much with the leading men, feasted them, and made them presents, a slight hint would often result in the chief or medicine man 'presenting' me with some object of historic or ceremonial interest, which etiquette would not permit to be 'sold,' and which a white man would probably not have been allowed to see at all. "My chief object has been, not to entertain, but to present the American Indian in his true character before Americans. The barbarous and atrocious character commonly attributed to him has dated from the transition period, when the strong drink, powerful temptations, and commercialism of the white man led to deep demoralization. Really it was a campaign of education on the Indian and his true place in American history."
