A History of Native American Land Rights in Upstate New York [Paperback]

A complex and troubled history defines the borders of upstate New York beyond the physical boundaries of its rivers and lakes. The United States and the state were often deceptive in their territory negotiations with the Iroquois Six Nations. Amidst the growing quest for more land among settlers and then fledgling Americans, the Indian nations attempted to maintain their autonomy. Yet state land continued to encroach the Six Nations. Local historian Cindy Amrhein takes a close and critical view of these transactions. Evidence of dubious deals, bribes, faulty surveys and coerced signatures may help explain why many of the Nations now feel they were cheated out of their territory. Now I understand better why I periodically read about highly contested claims even today in the Adirondack region. Reading the book has given me a better appreciation of the complexity of the matter. Adirondack Daily Enterprise

Amrhein does an excellent job of organizing and laying out her information in a straightforward manner. I would recommend this book published by The History Press Indian Country Today