Though they speak several different languages and organize themselves
into many distinct tribes, the Native American peoples of the Southeast
share a complex ancient culture and a tumultuous history. This volume
examines and synthesizes their history through each of its integral
phases: the complex and elaborate societies that emerged and flourished
in the Pre-Columbian period; the triple curse of disease, economic
dependency, and political instability brought by the European invasion;
the role of Native Americans in the inter-colonial struggles for control
of the region; the removal of the "Five Civilized Tribes" to Oklahoma;
the challenges and adaptations of the post-removal period; and the
creativity and persistence of those who remained in the Southeast.