44 pages 1 hour read

Vine Deloria Jr.

Custer Died for Your Sins: An Indian Manifesto

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1969

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Custer Died for Your Sins: An Indian Manifesto by Vine Deloria Jr. delves into the oppression faced by Native people in the United States, details their historical resistance, and suggests actionable steps for modern Indigenous activism. Deloria critiques anthropologists, missionaries, and federal policies aimed at erasing Native culture and advocates for a resurgence of traditional practices and leadership. The book contains in-depth discussion and analysis of crimes against Indigenous Americans.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Vine Deloria Jr.'s Custer Died for Your Sins: An Indian Manifesto receives praise for its powerful critique of U.S. policies toward Native Americans and its witty, incisive prose. Reviewers commend its historical insights and passionate advocacy, though some note it feels dated in parts. Overall, it's a compelling, influential read in Native American studies.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Custer Died for Your Sins: An Indian Manifesto?

A reader who enjoys Custer Died for Your Sins: An Indian Manifesto by Vine Deloria Jr. is likely interested in Native American history, ethnic studies, and social justice. Similar in audience to Howard Zinn's A People’s History of the United States, this book appeals to those seeking critical perspectives on U.S. history and Indigenous issues.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

History: U.S.

Politics / Government

Race / Racism

Themes

Identity: Indigenous

Society: Colonialism

Society: Nation