Captives Among the Indians

"Captives Among the Indians: First-hand Narratives of Indian Wars, Customs, Tortures, and Habits of Life in Colonial Times," edited by Horace Kephart, shares real stories from people captured by Native American tribes, giving us insights into colonial America's conflicts and cultures. The book focuses on the experiences of these captives and their observations of Native American customs during a time of great conflict. One story is about Colonel James Smith, who was captured by Delaware Indians in 1755. Smith describes his capture, how the tribe treated him, and how he was eventually adopted into their community, learning their traditions. Smith's tale explores his difficulties, like dealing with tough conditions, and forming bonds with those who captured him, offering a complex look at how people from different cultures interacted during this important period in history.