Description
Book SynopsisLawrence A. Dwyer has written the story of Chief Standing Bear of the Ponca Nation, who was willing to face arrest for leaving the government's reservation without permission because of his love for his son and his people, and a desire to be free, resulting in the First Civil Rights victory for Native Americans.
Trade Review“A history involving the law, government policy, treaties, and the military could so easily get mired in technical language. This book never does. Rather, it maintains a crystal clarity, nimbleness, and focus on what matters—the people, their humanity, and what happened. . . . [Dwyer] has created a vivid picture of the events before, during, and after the trial and never loses sight of the story’s true hero, Standing Bear.”—Judi M. gaiashkibos, executive director of the Nebraska Commission on Indian Affairs
Table of ContentsForeword by Judi M. gaiashkibos
Preface
1. His Name Was Standing Bear
2. Early History of the Poncas
3. The Ponca System of Law
4. Precedents for the Ponca Removal in the American System of Law
5. Treaties with the Poncas
6. The Ponca Displacement Begins
7. Journey of Sorrows
8. Standing Bear Takes Action
9. Imprisoned at Fort Omaha
10. The Interviews
11. Tibbles Assembles a Legal Team
12. The Great Writ
13. Witnesses Testify
14. The Trial’s Closing Arguments
15. Standing Bear’s Historic Speech
16. A Time for Waiting
17. The Court’s Decision
18. Standing Bear Keeps His Promise
19. Standing Bear’s Gratitude and Generosity
20. A Fire Kindled
21. Redress for Wrongs
22. The Standing Bear Decision Sets Precedent
23. A Nation Aroused from the Sin of Indifference
24. The Omaha Connection
25. Standing Bear at Peace
Acknowledgments
Discussion Questions
Notes
Bibliography
Index
