On Our Own Ground: The Complete Writings of William Apess, a Pequot

by William Apess, Barry O'Connell (Editor)

"Makes available in a superb scholarly edition not only the first published autobiography by a native American (1829 originally), but also a range of historical, political, and personal writings." -- New York Times Book Review

William Apess was the first Native American's to fully, and publicly, speak out regarding the racism and unfair treatment that he and others endured. The author's writing is eloquently delivered, instilling the reader with a realistic framework of a political, historical, and personal mindset.

Genres: Memoir, Nonfiction, Grad School

344 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1836

About the author

1798-1839, also known as William Apes. Methodist preacher, writer and political activist of Pequot and mixed heritage. His book A Son of the Forest was among the first published autobiographies by a Native American.

Reviews

[Saffyre Falkenberg]

An Indian's Looking Glass for the White Man is still one of my absolute favorite early American texts

[Becky]

Apess is a very educated man who brings out many good points. A point he makes that only one in fifteen or sixteen people are white, and that we are all made by and in the image of God. Also that if the nation crimes were written on each persons skin, the white skin (and it's associated crimes) would be an awful sight. Not only does Apess make a good case for the Indians, but against all racism in this document.

[T]

Apess is wonderful. The commentary from the 90s, less so. More to come after finals.

[JohnW1cky]

Apess is an interesting man with an equal interesting life. I wish he hadn’t suffered. The world can be a cruel place…

[Tasha]

Very, very interesting. Rather dry.

[Peg]

"An Indian’s Looking Glass for the White Man” is iconic.