Publisher's Synopsis
Shadow Travelers presents a revolutionary view behind the challenges many Native Americans have faced throughout the history of this country. The story of the Native American people is told in two ways in this creative non-fiction book. We all love a good story and the birth of the Eagle and Coyote stories provides a clearer understanding of various historical events. They are interesting characters who were sent to various time periods, mostly in Michigan, to investigate the rationale behind specific events such as the signing of the 1836 Treaty of Washington. Eagle and Coyote are blessed with many gifts from shape shifting to spirit travel. Enjoy traveling through time with Eagle and Coyote as they explore the history of the Anishanaabeg (Native American people).This is a tale of betrayal, survival and resiliencyby the author of Beyond the Shadows. When the Europeans started settling in this country, the Native American people's lives were changed forever. Before the arrival of the Europeans, many of the Native Americans were nomadic, they traveled and lived where wild game and other food sources were plentiful. The Bahwating area, known as Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, had many food sources available for the Anishanaabeg. The fish were plentiful in the St. Mary's River, and there was plenty of deer and bear to hunt. The fur traders were attracted to this area. The fur trading business lasted over 200 years in Michigan. Many of the hardships the Native Americans have faced throughout history can be associated with the fur trading business. Most of the white settlers wanted to take care of the "Indian Problem." President Jackson pushed the Cherokees and other tribal nations west of the Mississippi. A foreign concept of trade was introduced to the Native Americans that involved placing a value on land, furs, and other goods. They did not know how to place a value on land for example. That depended upon the yield they obtained through hunting and gathering to feed their villages. The Native Americans were forced to endure such hardships such as losses of their children, land, and means of sustenance. It is a miracle that they still exist today.The boarding school and reservation legislation had caused a serious decrease in the Native American population along with the diseases that were brought to this country. Many Native American people died at the hands of corrupt officials through various acts of genocide.Eagle and Coyote explore what life was like at a traditional tribal village and end up in tribal court during modern times. They summarize what they have learned from all their excursions. They discovered some valuable lessons that were taught to them by the various endeavors of the Euro-Americans and Native Americans. Lessons that all people could benefit from while they travel through life.