A 19th Century Native American Author Advocates for His People

Indians Residing in Michigan and Indiana. [To accompany H. Res. No. 443.]. Memorial of Certain Indians Residing in Michigan and Indiana

Pokagun, Simon; Seton Moty et al.

Notes: The noted 19th century Native American author and leader of the Pokagun Band of the Pottawatomi, joins with other tribal leaders to make a claim for almost $300,000 due to them by treaty but never paid. This publication briefly lays out the history of treaties between the Pottawatomi and the US government and describes how small bands were allowed to stay in Michigan when the rest of the tribe was removed to Indian Territory. These bands, which had converted to Catholicism, were to receive a pro rata share of the funds guaranteed by the treaties, but Congress regularly appropriated less funds than were necessary to meet the obligations.

Pokagun began lobbying for full funding with President Lincoln, who he met twice. This appears to be his first published claim to Congress, an effort that would be repeated several times during the 1870s.

In the 1880s, Pokagun published several books. He is listed here as the primary author, with seven other members of the Michigan bands of Pottawatomis, perhaps making this the first publication under his name.

8 pages with a large folding table itemizing treaty stipulations. 41st Congress, 3d Session. House of Representatives Mis. Doc. No. 32. January 16, 1871.

Edition + Condition: First edition. A fine copy, trimmed to allow the insertion of the table, but never bound; entirely as issued and very scarce thus.

Publication: [Washington, DC]: (n.p.), 1871.

Item No: #307450

Price: $400