James Smith & Massy Harbison 
Captives Among the Indians 

Captives Among the Indians is a compelling anthology that collates firsthand accounts from various time periods and locales, all centered around the harrowing experiences of being held captive by Native Americans. This collection showcases a remarkable range of literary styles, from the straightforward narrative of Mary White Rowlandson to the detailed letters of Francesco Giuseppe Bressani, all providing an authentic window into the complexities of frontier life and cross-cultural interactions. The anthology is significant not only for its diverse literary forms but also for highlighting the nuanced human emotions and survival strategies in face of such trials, making each account a standout piece in its own right. The contributing authors, James Smith, Massy Harbison, Francesco Giuseppe Bressani, and Mary White Rowlandson, come from varied backgrounds but share the common thread of having endured captivity. Their narratives offer invaluable insights into the historical, cultural, and even theological implications of their encounters, reflecting broader narratives of colonial expansion, cultural conflict, and adaptation. Together, their works contribute to a richer understanding of early American history and the diverse experiences of individuals caught between colliding worlds. Captives Among the Indians is a must-read for anyone interested in the early interactions between Native Americans and European settlers, offering a rare opportunity to explore multiple viewpoints and experiences within a single volume. Each account is not only a story of survival and resilience but also a deeply educational journey into a critical period of American history. Readers will find in this anthology a profound and engaging exploration of the human spirit confronted with the challenges of an untamed frontier, making it an invaluable addition to the library of scholars, historians, and anyone fascinated by the intersection of cultures.

About the author

James Smith remains a historical figure whose personal narrative, ‘Captives Among the Indians, ‘ presents an insightful account of his experiences during the mid-18th century. Smith’s narrative, published in 1799, offers a detailed depiction of his time amongst the Native American tribes after being captured in the frontier regions of what is now the United States. His work is not merely a personal memoir; it is a rich source for understanding indigenous cultures and colonial interactions during a tumultuous period in American history. Deeply imbued with the concerns and perspectives of an English colonist, Smith’s literary style is a vivid amalgamation of adventure, ethnography, and personal reflection. The solemnity and the descriptive fidelity with which he writes lend his text a certain scholarly gravity, appealing to those interested in the ethnological and historical facets of colonial America. Little is known about Smith apart from what is derived from his narrative itself, making him a somewhat enigmatic figure. Despite this, ‘Captives Among the Indians’ continues to be a reference point for researchers interested in the complexities of Native American and settler relations and remains a compelling read for enthusiasts of colonial American literature and history.