Black Elk: Colonialism and Lakota Catholicism

Description

This fascinating study of Black Elk| one of the most significant Native Americans of the twentieth century| focuses on his Catholicism| including his conversion| his practice of religion| and his very religious identity| which has been widely disputed by scholars. Some have claimed that he was a Lakota holy man first and foremost| and others have claimed he was a fully Catholic convert. By contrast| Costello uncovers a Black Elk who is at once a sincere Catholic| a Lakota holy man| and an active agent fighting for the survival of his people in a colonial world infringing on the Lakota| their lands| and their traditions.