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Mohave Indians Books
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R. B. (Royal Byron) Stratton
Captivity of the Oatman Girls Being an Interesting Narrative of Life Among the Apache and Mohave Indians
"Captivity of the Oatman Girls" by R. B. Stratton is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The narrative tells the harrowing story of the Oatman family, focusing on the captivity of two sisters, Olive and Mary Ann, after their family was brutally attacked by Apache Indians during their journey to California. This account aims to document the family's tragedy and the sisters' subsequent suffering. At the start of the book, the Oatman family is introduced as they embark on their journey from Missouri to California, facing various hardships along the way. The narrative details their initial encampment and interactions with both friendly and hostile groups before the devastating attack occurs. A massacre leads to the capture of Olive and Mary Ann, with only their brother Lorenzo surviving, setting the stage for the dramatic experiences that will follow during the sisters' captivity among the Apache and Mohave tribes. This opening portion establishes the tone of the book as one steeped in tragedy, resilience, and the pursuit of survival against overwhelming odds.
A. L. (Alfred Louis) Kroeber
Seven Mohave Myths
"Seven Mohave Myths" by A. L. Kroeber is an anthropological text written in the mid-20th century. This work focuses on the mythological narratives of the Mohave Indians, providing insights into their cultural beliefs, oral traditions, and storytelling techniques. The collection serves as a repository of the Mohave narratives, which are richly woven with song schemes, offering a glimpse into the community's historical and cosmic understanding of their world. At the start of "Seven Mohave Myths," Kroeber introduces the cultural significance of these narratives within Mohave society. He explains that the stories are not just retellings but serve a ritualistic and educational function, emphasizing that many tales are deeply embedded in the dreams and lived experience of the tellers. The opening specifically notes the tale of "Cane," recounting a story with epic qualities, focusing on two brothers, Pukehane and T{sh}it{sh}uvare, and their adventures as they navigate personal trials and familial relationships influenced by their cultural beliefs. The text also highlights the oral tradition's intricacies, illustrating how the tales' stylistic elements contribute to their function as cultural artifacts.
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