"The struggle between the Modoc Indians and the onward sweep of civilization -- incredibly costly in lives and greenbacks -- was one of the last and most stubborn of all."--Preface.

Along the shores of Tule Lake in northern California, three small bands of Modoc Indians joined forces in the fall and winter of 1872-73 to hold off more than one thousand U.S. soldiers and settlers trying to dislodge them from their ancient refuge in the lava beds.

Devil's Backbone Terry C. Johnston The Modoc Indians and American officials had been flirting with war in the Oregon Territory for some time. When Modoc chief Keintpoos murdered a Civil War hero during negotiations, the U.S. Army launched a deadly offensive against the rebel tribe. Besieged in the natural stronghold of the Lava Beds near Tule Lake, the Modocs waged bloody war for seven long months. Sergeant Seamus Donegan, on the trail of his uncle, Ian O'Rourke, arrived at Tule Lake just as the conflict erupted. Soon Donegan and the brooding O'Rourke found themselves embroiled in what would be the costliest war in frontier history...

"A major contribution to California historiography...will allow other scholars to analyze more fully the origins of racism and the range of ethnic experiences in California."--"Pacific Historical Review" "A rare and realistic examination of American racism at work. It should be placed in the hands of every American who questions the reality of American racism."--"Race and Schools"

Authoritative guide to everything in print about lawmen and the lawless—from Billy the Kid to the painted ladies of frontier cow towns. Nearly 2,500 entries, taken from newspapers, court records, and more.