Crowfoot: Chief of the Blackfeet

by Hugh A. Dempsey

Crowfoot, a Blood Indian who became chief of the Blackfoot Nation, was a great warrior and peacemaker during the time of settlement of the Canadian West.
In one shattering decade, from 1875 to 1885, the great buffalo herds disappeared from Western Canada, forcing the Plains Indians who had depended on them for food, shelter, and clothing, to change their way of life. Crowfoot became a leader by merit, establishing his leadership in battle. He survived smallpox epidemics, fought in 19 battles, and provided generous leadership, sharing his wealth with the less successful.
"Crowfoot" tells the story of how one Canadian First Nation was led through years of cataclysmic change by a wise chief, a great warrior, a diplomat and peacemaker who viewed peace as the key to survival.

Genres: History, Biography, Nonfiction

226 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1972

About the author

Hugh Aylmer Dempsey is a well known Canadian historian and writer who has authored twelve books and numerous articles. He is an honorary chief of the Blood Tribe and was the chief curator of the Glenbow Museum. Among the many awards he has received for his writing are the Award for Outstanding Contribution to Alberta History and Award of Merit, Local History Section, Canadian Historical Association. He lives in Calgary.

Reviews

[kaelan · Rating 3 out of 5]

A well written and nuanced—if perhaps slightly dated—biography of the great Siksika (Blackfoot) chief.

[Thomas Falcon · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Oki comrades, come smoke with me"

[Lancer · Rating 2 out of 5]

had to read for school.

[Lennon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Engaging - interesting to learn of the tribes travels between America and Canada