Distinguished Professor Charles Wilkinson of the University of Colorado at Boulder will launch his new and highly praised book, "Blood Struggle: The Rise of Modern Indian Nations," with a public reading on March 16.
The noted author of 12 previous books and renowned scholar of American Indian law will read from his book at 7 p.m. in the Boulder Public Library Auditorium at 1000 Canyon Blvd. The free event is sponsored by the CU-Boulder Center of the American West, the Boulder Public Library Foundation and the Native American Rights Fund of Boulder.
Wilkinson is the Moses Lasky Professor of Law and one of only 23 professors to hold the title of distinguished professor on the Boulder campus. His other books include "The Eagle Bird: Mapping a New West" and "Fire on the Plateau: Conflict and Endurance in the American Southwest."
In "Blood Struggle," Wilkinson describes how American Indians have fought to preserve their traditions and to assert their rights since the early 1950s, the all-time low point of tribal existence in America. In 1953, Congress passed the termination law, which called for the sell-off of all tribal lands, withdrawal of federal support and complete assimilation.
Over the past two generations, tribes responded with a stirring revival that has re-established tribal governments and has improved economic and social conditions on the reservations. Wilkinson recounts the extraordinary efforts of tribal leaders including Vine Deloria Jr., Ada Deer, Wilma Mankiller, Leonard Burch and others.
U.S. Sen. John McCain called the book "an American classic" and "essential reading for public officials and anyone else who wants to understand the history and nature of relationships between the United States and Indian tribes." Deloria, a prominent author and former CU-Boulder professor, said "Blood Struggle" is "THE BOOK -- we will not need another one on this topic."
A reception and book signing will follow the event. Books also will be available for sale.
For more information call (303) 492-4879 or visit .