Angie Debo (1890–1988)

The book to dispel the myth about Geronimo (or Goyahkla)--can you still call something a myth if it is demonizing rather than lauding a person? Presents background information on his parents, the cultural divisions of the Apache, their lifeways, and the surrounding events in their lives, all of which help us understand how Geronimo developed his skills and the strong support he received from his people. He wasn't just a single man fighting for his life.
Having said all that, I admit I never got beyond the first few chapters, primarily because I have too many other commitments to give this the time and focus it needs. While I was reading, I found it intensely interesting but fairly difficult to get through. Debo is obviously a scholar. This is a good thing when he delves into as many varied sources as needed to present a full understanding. But when he presents disputed facts (e.g. some sources give 1850, some sources say 1858) and then explains why he believes one of them is more accurate, it becomes more than I have time for.
Includes footnotes, lengthy bibliography, index, historical photos, and a few maps.
I fully believe the importance of clearing up false beliefs about historical figures, especially when those prejudices affect how we treat others.That said, I live in Wisconsin and I'm more likely to confront the demonization of Black Hawk than of Geronimo in my daily life. I will admit to picking up this book because of having listened to [Killer of Enemies] by [[Joseph Bruchac]] and wanting to know more about the culture of the historical Lozen. I'm writing this review of a partial book as a reminder to myself for some future time when I again have the freedom to go deeper into this biography.… (mehr)