Encounters at the Heart of the World

"Encounters at the Heart of the World" by Pulitzer Prize winner Elizabeth A. Fenn offers an engaging reevaluation of North American history through the lens of the Mandan Indians, a prominent Plains people whose thriving communities once flourished along the upper Missouri River. Combining archaeological, anthropological, and scientific insights, Fenn uncovers the complex history of the Mandans, including their rise, decline, and enduring cultural identity amidst the profound changes brought by European contact. This compelling narrative provides a new perspective on early American history, emphasizing the resilience of a people deeply connected to their land.