Kenekuk: The Kickapoo Prophet

Lawrence, KS: University of Kansas Press, 1988 University of Kansas Press, Lawrence, KS. 1988. Hardcover. First Printing by Line Number. Book is tight, square, and unmarked but for a F/O address label on the FFFP. Book Condition: Fine. DJ: Very Good +; small closed tear at top of front gutter; sunfading to spine. Black cloth boards and spine with bright white lettering on the spine. 176 pp 8vo. Kenekuk was the leader of the Vermillion Band Kickapoos and Potawatomis from the 1820s to 1852. In this sensitive and revealing biography, the author explores Kenekuk’s rise to power and astute leadership, as well as tracing the evolution of his policy of acculturation. This strategy proved highly effective in protecting Kenekuk’s people against the increasingly complex, intrusive, and hostile white world. In helping his people adjust to white society and retain their lands without resorting to warfare or losing their identity as Indians, the Kickapoo Prophet displayed exceptional leadership, both secular and religious. He always stressed peace and outward cooperation with whites. Thus, by the time of his death in 1852, Kenekuk had prepared his people for the challenge of maintaining a separate and unique Indian way of life within a dominant white culture. A clean very presentable copy in a Brodart mylar jacket.