Red Prophet - by David E Wilkins (Paperback)

About the Book

In the face of looming, tumultuous global change, this examination provides answers for those venturing into Vine's work in Indigenous and non-Indigenous politics, ecology, and organization. David E. Wilkins's insights, based on his personal relationship with Deloria, document the sacred life and legacy of "one of the most important religious thinkers of the 20th century, according to TIME"--Provided by publisher.

Book Synopsis

A deep examination of the life and legacy of Vine Deloria Jr., a key figure in Native American intellectual and political history.

In the face of looming, tumultuous global change, Red Prophet: The Punishing Intellectualism of Vine Deloria Jr. is a guide for those venturing into Vine's work in search of answers and solutions to Indigenous and non-Indigenous politics, ecology, and organization. David E. Wilkins's insights, based on his personal relationship with Deloria, document the sacred life and legacy of "one of the most important religious thinkers of the twentieth century" (TIME).

This biography explores Deloria's intellectual contributions, activism, and spiritual leadership. It offers a deep dive into Indigenous legal, religious, social, and philosophical tactics. A must-read for those seeking to understand Native American history, Indigenous rights, and the ongoing struggle for sovereignty. Perfect for readers interested in political science, history, and social commentary.

Review Quotes

"Every now and then a book comes along that reminds us that there is a vast history of the real work that Native writers have been doing in the 20th century that advances our knowledge of the "race" problem in the United States in important ways." --Elizabeth Cook-Lynn, Indian Z

"With the above in mind, one can practically hear Deloria dictating to Wilkins what ideas to highlight, which excerpts to quote, and how to organize this paean to Deloria's legacy into something that wants to look like an intellectual biography but is more of a prolonged eulogy delivered by a devoted son to his spiritual father." --David Martínez, Wicazo Sa Review

"Perhaps we will all learn even more about the American Indian gift of prophecy and a sense of the sacredness of place as the drama at Standing Rock and elsewhere in America continues to unfold. Fortunately, we now have David Wilkins's Red Prophet: The Punishing Intellectualism of Vine Deloria Jr., to guide us on our journey to understanding the increasingly vital legacy of Vine Deloria Jr." --Bobby Bridger

About the Author

David E. Wilkins is a citizen of the Lumbee Nation and holds the McKnight Presidential Professorship in American Indian Studies at the University of Minnesota. Wilkins is the author or editor of a number of books, including Dismembered: Native Disenrollment and the Battle for Human Rights. His articles have appeared in a range of social science, law, history, and ethnic studies journals.