Black, Red and Deadly: Black and Indian Gunfighters of the Indian Territory, 1870-1907 : Book Review

"Black, Red, and Deadly" by Arthur T. Burton offers a captivating and insightful exploration of the turbulent history of Native American law enforcement. In this thought-provoking book, Burton delves into the challenges faced by Native American police officers as they maneuver through complex jurisdictional issues and cultural clashes within their communities. Drawing from his own extensive experience as a law enforcement officer and his deep understanding of tribal customs, Burton provides a unique and compelling perspective on the subject matter.

Burton vividly portrays the harsh realities that Native American law enforcement officers encounter, shedding light on the systematic challenges and prejudices they face both within and outside their communities. This is achieved through a skillful combination of historical accounts, personal anecdotes, and interviews, resulting in a well-rounded and informative narrative. By sharing stories of extraordinary bravery and sacrifice, Burton showcases the unwavering strength and resilience of these officers in the face of adversity.

Additionally, the book delves into the cultural complexities that significantly impact Native American policing. Burton explores how traditional values and practices often clash with modern law enforcement strategies, providing valuable insights into the distinctive approaches taken by Native American officers. This exploration not only enhances readers' understanding of the challenges faced by these officers, but also fosters a deep appreciation for the rich cultural heritage they strive to protect.

One of the notable strengths of Burton's book is his ability to captivatingly engage readers through descriptive language and compelling storytelling. The author skillfully blends historical facts with personal anecdotes and interviews, resulting in an informative and engrossing read. Burton's accessible writing style appeals to both those acquainted with law enforcement literature and those new to the subject matter.

Overall, "Black, Red, and Deadly" by Arthur T. Burton provides a thought-provoking and eye-opening exploration of the obstacles encountered by Native American law enforcement officers. By drawing on meticulous research and personal experiences, Burton sheds light on the historical, cultural, and bureaucratic challenges that these officers confront daily. This book serves as both an important historical account and a tribute to the courage, fortitude, and dedication of Native American law enforcement officers.

What are readers saying?

"Black, Red and Deadly: Black and Indian Gunfighters of the Indian Territory, 1870-1907" written by Arthur T. Burton has garnered mixed reviews. While some readers applaud the book for its meticulous research and captivating subject matter, others criticize its writing style and lack of organization.

Many reviewers commend Arthur T. Burton's extensive research in "Black, Red and Deadly." They appreciate his detailed accounts of the lives and achievements of Black and Indian gunfighters in the Indian Territory during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Readers find Burton's dedication to presenting historical facts educational and informative.

However, some reviewers express concerns about the book's writing style. They find it dry and struggle to engage with it, making it challenging to fully immerse themselves in the story. Additionally, some readers mention that the book lacks organization as it abruptly transitions between different topics and time periods without clear cohesion.

Another point of contention among reviewers is the book's emphasis on violence. While acknowledging the historical context in which these gunfighters operated, some readers believe that the book excessively romanticizes violence instead of providing a balanced portrayal of their lives and struggles.

Despite these criticisms, many readers acknowledge the significance of shedding light on the often overlooked contributions and experiences of Black and Indian gunfighters. They believe that "Black, Red and Deadly" serves as an invaluable resource for those interested in the history of the Indian Territory and the Wild West.

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