John Wesley Powell 
Wyandot Government: A Short Study of Tribal Society 
Bureau of American Ethnology

In ‘Wyandot Government: A Short Study of Tribal Society’, John Wesley Powell delves into the intricate social and political structures of the Wyandot tribe. Powell examines the unique governmental system of the Wyandot people, providing a detailed analysis of their customs, laws, and decision-making processes. Through his scholarly approach, Powell sheds light on the complexities of tribal society, offering valuable insights into a little-known aspect of Native American culture. The book is a testament to Powell’s meticulous research and dedication to understanding and preserving the history of indigenous peoples. Written in a clear and concise style, ‘Wyandot Government’ offers a compelling look into the governance of a Native American community. John Wesley Powell, a renowned ethnologist and geologist, drew inspiration from his fieldwork and interactions with Native American tribes to produce this insightful study. His expertise and passion for the subject shine through in the meticulous detail and thoughtful analysis present in the book. ‘Wyandot Government’ is a must-read for anyone interested in Native American history, tribal governance, or the preservation of indigenous cultures.

Mengenai Pengarang

John Wesley Powell (1834–1902) was a pioneering American explorer, geologist, and anthropologist, best known for his daring expeditions of the American West and his profound contributions to the understanding of its geography and indigenous cultures. Born to English immigrants in Mount Morris, New York, Powell showed an early interest in nature and exploration, which later led him to serve as a Union officer during the Civil War. Despite losing his right arm in the Battle of Shiloh, his indomitable spirit pushed him to continue his pursuits in the sciences.

In 1869, Powell embarked on a historic expedition, leading the first known passage through the Grand Canyon and documenting the journey in his influential work ‘Explorations of the Colorado River of the West and Its Tributaries’ (1875). In his lesser-known but significant study, ‘Wyandot Government: A Short Study of Tribal Society’ (1881), Powell examines the political and social organization of the Wyandot people, reflecting his broader interest in the functioning and structure of indigenous societies. His literary style, characterized by meticulous detail and a scientific approach, has left a lasting legacy on the fields of anthropology and history. Powell served as the second director of the US Geological Survey and founded the Bureau of American Ethnology, committed to the systematic study of Native American cultures and languages.