Forgotten Allies: The Oneida Indians and the American Revolution

by Joseph T. Glatthaar and James Kirby Martin

Book Overview

Combining compelling narrative and grand historical sweep, "Forgotten Allies "offers a vivid account of the Oneida Indians, forgotten heroes of the American Revolution who risked their homeland, their culture, and their lives to join in a war that gave birth to a new nation at the expense of their own. Revealing for the first time the full sacrifice of the Oneidas in securing independence, "Forgotten Allies "offers poignant insights about Oneida culture...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0809046016
• ISBN13: 9780809046010
• Release Date: October 2006
• Publisher: Hill & Wang
• Length: 434 Pages
• Weight: 1.72 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.4" x 6.3" x 9.4"

Customer Reviews

History at its Best

In this highly researched and original monograph, Glatthaar and Martin expand the historical memory and provide agency to Native-Americans. This is both a revisionist work and an "expansionist" work, so to speak. Even more this is truly a perspective of the Revolution from the Oneida point-of-view: Typical events one reads about in Revolutionary histories are absent or serve as backdrops to another relevant perspective. The Oneida culture and political systems are also discussed. Furthermore, this book is accessible to general readers and scholars. Forgotten Allies has even caught the attention of movie producers.

Forgotten Allies: The Oneida Indians and the American Revolution

Five stars just aren't enough! This is a story that has needed to be told for so long and it's told here beautifully. I can't put it down. The contribution made by this book is validated by the fact that it is recommended on the website of the Oneida Nation -- that's how I found it. If you have an interest in this subject matter, it's a 'must read'!

Good read, great history

A brilliant piece of scholarship! This is a solid piece of research that fills a significant void in Revolutionary era scholarship. It is not an apology for past wrongs nor is it tasteless pablum covering territory so many times previously travelled. Rather, this is a refreshing look at the important role made by Native Americans in casting off the British yoke. If you want to read a great history, read this one. Once you start you won't be able to put it down until you've finished.

Buy this book!!!

J.K. Martin does it again. Just as he did with his biography of Benedict Arnold, Professor Martin has placed historical accuracy above mythology to capture the true story of a forgotten people. The Oneida saga is one of the saddest blemishes on American history, not because they were an Indian people who were taken advantage of -- as were so many, particularly out west -- but because, despite their heroic support of the colonial cause, they were taken for granted. This is a brilliant piece of work that adds immeasurably to the historical fabric of our country. A must read for all who take seriously their revolutionary war studies.

A long-overdue tribute to truly forgotten allies

Martin and Glatthaar admirably chronicle the history of the Oneida Indians, their important contribution to the colonists during the American Revolution, and the shameful manner in which they were forgotten in the war's aftermath. Martin and Glatthaar do their part as historians to set the record straight. Hopefully, this book will serve as inspiration to others to remember that the United States would not exist but for the vital assistance of many who were ultimately excluded from the Founders' dream of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.