The Queen of the Savannah: A Story of the Mexican War

"The Queen of the Savannah: A Story of the Mexican War" by Gustave Aimard is a historical fiction book that explores themes of war, colonization, and conflict between Mexicans and Indigenous people during the Mexican War. The story centers on Don Aníbal de Saldíbar, a rich landowner, dealing with the Red Buffaloes, a tribe near his land that he treats poorly, leading to growing tension. Set in New Spain, the story opens with Don Aníbal, his servant Pedro Sotavento, and Doña Emilia discussing the threat of the Red Buffaloes. The narrative shows their different views of the Indigenous people, hinting at conflict and showing differences in class and race. Things get worse when they find a barrier made by the Red Buffaloes, signaling a coming fight between Don Aníbal's unfair goals and the Native people's fight for survival. The beginning sets the scene for a story of struggle that raises questions about power and looks at the results of colonial beliefs.