Stolen Continents

Stolen Continents examines the colonial conquest of the Americas through the experiences of five major indigenous civilizations: the Maya, Inca, Aztec, Cherokee, and Iroquois peoples. The narrative spans from 1492 to 1990, drawing from primary sources and native accounts to present these histories. Wright structures each section in three phases: first contact with Europeans, the subsequent conflicts and conquests, and the continuing resistance movements of indigenous peoples. The text incorporates oral histories, archaeological evidence, and historical documents to construct a comprehensive view of these events. The book counters traditional European-centered accounts of American colonization by prioritizing indigenous perspectives and voices. Through parallel narratives of five distinct peoples, it traces patterns of conquest, resistance, and survival across both North and South America. This work challenges conventional colonial histories by exploring themes of cultural persistence, the complexity of indigenous civilizations, and the ongoing impact of European conquest in the Americas. Wright's approach raises questions about historical memory and the nature of progress in human societies.

Readers describe this as a detailed account of colonization from indigenous perspectives, drawing on native oral histories and primary sources. Many note it changed their understanding of American history by highlighting voices often left out of traditional textbooks. Readers appreciated: - Inclusion of direct quotes and firsthand accounts - Clear organization by region/civilization - Balance between scholarly depth and accessibility - Extensive research and citations Common criticisms: - Dense academic writing style - Some sections feel repetitive - Limited coverage of certain regions/tribes - Occasional bias in tone when describing European actions Ratings: Goodreads: 4.2/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (90+ ratings) "Opens your eyes to perspectives missing from standard history books" - Goodreads reviewer "Important but dry reading at times" - Amazon reviewer "Should be required reading in schools" - LibraryThing reviewer

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★ The book's title was inspired by a quote from Cayuga faith keeper Peter Jemison: "We were not discovered... this was a theft of a continent." ★ Author Ronald Wright lived among indigenous communities in Peru and Mexico while researching the book, learning firsthand accounts passed down through generations. ★ The Cherokee section includes the first English translation of several previously unpublished letters written by Cherokee leaders during the Trail of Tears. ★ The Aztec empire, at its height before European contact, ruled over 5-6 million people - a population larger than any European country at the time. ★ The Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Confederacy's governmental structure, particularly its concepts of checks and balances, influenced the United States Constitution - a fact acknowledged by Benjamin Franklin.