In 1883 a Smithsonian Institution ethnologist traveled to western New York State to record the traditional tales of the Iroquois tribe known as the Seneca. These myths -- picturesque, archaic, even grotesque -- appear here in their original form, exactly as spoken. Many focus on seasons or weather; others creation myths and animals.

This is the story of controversial Seneca chief and orator Red Jacket (ca. 1750-1830), whose passionate, articulate defense of the old ways won the admiration of many but also earned enmity from other tribal leaders. Red Jacket received a medal from George Washington as a token of friendship. This biography follows Red Jacket from boyhood through the Revolutionary War.

This book tells the story of the late colonial and early reservation history of the Seneca Indians, and of the prophet Handsome Lake, his visions, and the moral and religious revitalization of an American Indian society that he and his followers achieved in the years around 1800.

More than 160 tales from eighty tribal groups present a rich and lively panorama of the Native American mythic heritage. From across the continent comes tales of creation and love; heroes and war; animals, tricksters, and the end of the world. “This fine, valuable new gathering of ... tales is truly alive, mysterious, and wonderful—overflowing, that is, with wonder, mystery and life" (National Book Award Winner Peter Matthiessen). In addition to mining the best folkloric sources of the nineteenth century, the editors have also included a broad selection of contemporary Native American voices.