Toypurina: The Joan of Arc of California

by Ernest P. Salas Teutimes, Andrew Salas, Christina Swindall Martinez

Toypurina is not only the heroine of the Kizh/Gabrieleno people but she is unique in California history: indeed, in the history of the U.S. This is because she is the only Native American woman to have led a revolt against foreign conquering powers. Her story is remarkably like Joan of Arc; although both women met tragic ends, their remarkable accomplishments make them timeless and inspiring heroines. Unfortunately, Toypurina's life story has been misrepresented in the historical writings to date. Now for the first time, the Kizh/Gabrieleno people present her factual story as well as her astounding legacy.

94 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2011

Reviews

[Justin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A remarkable book.
It probably won't please people who are looking for a simple A to B to C narrative story.
It is instead a strong academic work that provides a fascinating window to a different view of California history.
It was refreshing to hear the tribe tell their own history. I consider myself greatly enriched by what I learned about the culture of the Gabrieleno indians who inhabited (and, of course, continue to inhabit) the area in southern CA where I now live.
Hopefully this ground-breaking book will help Toypurina and the story of her revolt get greater recognition from historians and the general public. I encourage the tribe to put out additional fine books like this on their history and culture.