In the old West, the Comanche ruled.  Settlers, soldiers and sheriffs fought them for territorial rights for over 4o years.    They were the most adept horsemen and fierce fighters.  They often took as captives, young white women and children; marrying them and raising them as part of their tribe.

 

Cynthia Ann Parker was a classic example of a white woman who spent most of her life with the Comanche until the day that she was "rescued" against her will, by some Texas Rangers.  Her half-breed son, Quanah Parker, went on to be the last of the great tribal chiefs.  A life defined by never having lost a battle.

 

Gwynne has a firm handle on his research and this work speaks volumns supporting the long history of governmental abuse of the American Indian and their struggle to conform to a society whose morals are alien to their own.

 

Not as profound as Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee, but very insightful.