Reader Matthew takes up my George Custer challenge:
I was interested in what you had to say about Little Big Horn as well as Custer, though not surprised. Anyone who has ever spent anytime at a public school on a reservation during the period in history class where Little Big Horn is covered realizes that racial tensions are still quite apparent. In my personal experience living on the reservation, these feelings of ill towards Custer go further than just angst ridden teenagers as well. Many of the insults thrown at federal government by the native population use Custer as their fuel and fire. There seems to remain a pride in his defeat that resonates across the tribes.
For additional proof of this look at any Native American literature from the West. (Sherman Alexie comes readily to mind) Littered throughout it, you will often find a contempt for the white man reveal itself through discussions concerning the late, great Custer.
Additional thoughts are welcome from readers. Email me at schaffsdp at gmail.com.
On a related note, if you ever have the chance to get tot he Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody, WY, please do. It's a fine institution with lots of Western history and art. It also has the biggest gun collection in the world, which is pretty cool if you like guns. BTW, Bill Cody was once a guide for George Custer.
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