Unsettled Past, Unsettled Future

by Neil Rolde

The headlines have been full of controversy over casinos, racinos, land claims settlements, and sovereign rights for Native Americans in Maine―and it's likely that we'll be talking about these complex issues for some time yet. A capable historian with an enjoyable narrative style, Neil Rolde puts these controversies in context by telling the larger story of Maine Indians since earliest times. There are many generous voices in this book, sharing their stories and hopes and fears. It's a privilege to listen to them and broaden our understanding of the issues faced by Native Americans in Maine.

Genres: History

480 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2004

Reviews

[Tuck · Rating 4 out of 5]

quite droll and funny for a history of indians in maine. author goes way back to perhaps pre-ice-age, but quickly brings us up to speed and explains how the land settlement of 1980 came about and its significance to all of indian country. same old litany of stolen land, some politicians and govt people with a conscience, tribes finally fighting for their sovereignty and even getting a certain amount. author was a maine politico, so has good info about state and fed govt workings, but also worked hard to tell indian side, that is the wabanaki confederacy, penobscots, pasamoquady, and has some really funny glooksap stories. if you ever need info about maine (and canada, vermont, new hamp. indians too) this is a great read.

[Jason · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book walks you through the history and controversies of the Indigenous People of the land we now call Maine. I highly encourage everyone to read this book because it's an eye opening account of colonialism and white supremacy in the Northeast U.S.. I am forever changed because of this book.