One Thousand White Women is the story of May Dodd and a colorful assembly of pioneer women who, under the auspices of the U.S. government, travel to the western prairies in 1875 to intermarry among the Cheyenne Indians. The covert and controversial “Brides for Indians” program, launched by the administration of Ulysses S. Grant, is intended to help assimilate the Indians into the white man’s … man’s world. Toward that end May and her friends embark upon the adventure of their lifetime. Jim Fergus has so vividly depicted the American West that it is as if these diaries are a capsule in time.
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Even though this is a novel, I did some research and discovered this was actually suggested although never considered. This book does seem to follow historical events acurately. I enjoyed it.
In the beginning the author states this is not based on a true story, but the book is so well written and seems so real that i would catch myself thinking this could have really happened. It does sound like a crazy scheme that back in the day they would have seen as an excellent idea for taming the heathens. I have read it at least three times and …
This book was amazing, I wasn’t sure about it when it was chosen for our book group but I found it difficult to put down. Didn’t want to see it end
Wonderful book. Currently readiing the 2nd book, “The Vengeance of Mother’s ” Its based on the journals of Margaret Kelly and Molly McGill.
I read this entire book under the assumption it was true. When I got to the end of the book and found out it was a fictional account I felt robbed out of what I had assumed would be an enlightening look at history.
I couldn’t put it down.
Riveting historical fiction.
Not clear at first (e-book) that this is an historical FICTION book
Fictional situation that seemed very plausible.
It was somewhat preposterous but still held my attention and the author seemed to have done a great deal of research about life among the Cheyenne which was very interesting.
Enjoyed reading this book so much!
I usually don’t read historical fiction, but I felt it would be good background on my Native American research and the storyline seemed interesting. Right on both counts! Well worth the time.
Amazing, I learned a lot and enjoyed the journey
So much potential. So disappointing.
The premise of Jim Fergus’s One Thousand White Women: The Journals of May Dodd is fascinating: President Grant has acquiesced to a Cheyenne chief’s request for 1000 white women brides to come West, marry Cheyenne braves, and teach the Indians how to assimilate into white culture. The request was actually made; …
Interesting premise and informative about the Cheyenne culture as well as some of the issues women faced in that era. One factor I didn’t like was that the author attributed an awareness that is very doubtful even for a very aware woman of the day.
Wonderful fictional portrayal of an actual historic tragedy. Outstanding read
Very much enjoyed this book. Took me totally by surprise! enough said. Couldn’t put it down. Excellent writing and story-telling. I was impressed.
One of the best books I’ve ever read. It’s beautifully written and I actually believe this happened even though it’s a “novel”. My sister read it and my friend is reading it now.
Liked the realistic characters, flaws and all. The work hard to better yourself theme was evident.
Well worth the time. I still think about the book a year later. Have recommended it.