Common and Contested Ground: A Human and Environmental History of the Northwestern Plains

by Theodore Binnema

In Common and Contested Ground, Theodore Binnema provides a sweeping and innovative interpretation of the history of the northwestern plains and its peoples from prehistoric times to the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

The real history of the northwestern plains between a.d. 200 and 1806 was far more complex, nuanced, and paradoxical than often imagined. Drawn by vast herds of buffalo and abundant resources, bands of Indians, fur traders, and settlers moved across the northwestern plains establishing intricate patterns of trade, diplomacy, and warfare. In the process, the northwestern plains became a common and contested ground.

Drawing on a wide range of sources, Binnema examines the impact of technology on the peoples of the northern plains, beginning with the bow-and-arrow and continuing through the arrival of the horse, European weapons, Old World diseases, and Euroamerican traders.

Genres: History

263 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 2001

Reviews

[Alex Milton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ted Binnema argues for the fluidity of Great Plains ecosystems and diplomatic relations in Common and Contested Ground: A Human and Environmental History of the Northwest Plains. The book provides a comprehensive environmental history on the relationship between humans and bison from the second century to the early nineteenth century. Framing his analysis between the ‘pedestrian era’ and ‘equestrian era’ of bison hunting, Binnema asserts that bison populations and the lucrative hunting shaped human relationships. In addition to drastically increasing the demand for bison hunting through trade demands, European contact introduced horses that reshaped bison hunting culture. Native American hunters increasingly gathered in large seasonal hunting parties in the summer. The book relies heavily on Euro-American journals, reports, and correspondence alongside archeological and ethnographic evidence. Binnema’s research distinguishes itself from previous historiography by focusing on interethnic and intraethnic cooperation and competition. He asserts that Native American, British, and French groups all cooperated and compete amongst each other as they sought to gain a greater foothold in the bison hunting.

[Nathan Storch · Rating 3 out of 5]

The main strength of Theodore's analysis is his emphasis on the fluctuating and dynamic nature of intertribal relations, which are not as predictable as one may initially assume. However the text insufficiently explores environmental change over the course of the study period. It's also interesting that the gradual westward migration of Sioux bands are overlooked, which I thought would be an aspect worth discussing.

[Laurie Weinstein · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good culture history of the northern Plains during late historic and early historic periods. You have to have knowledge of this culture area to really appreciate all the information.