This book was written by Major General O. O. Howard in an attempt to tell his life story and personal experiences among the Indian tribes that he came into contact with as a result of war. Written in autobiographical form, this piece captures the essence of the opinion of many military men had concerning the Indian tribes with whom we shared this country. While many of the author’s experiences were founded in peace-making, it is difficult to overlook his general acknowledgement of savagery and hostility among the Indians.

This work chronicles the conflict between the Indian tribes and the pioneers as the two groups battles for land and the right to live as they pleased. Within this conflict was the idea of “civilization”. This process is discussed in detail as the white settlers attempted to press their own customs and lifestyles upon the ancient Indian tribes.