John F. Finerty (1846–1908)

John F. Finerty was an Irish born, Chicago newspaperman, famed in the latter part of the 19th century. He accompanied Gen. Crook and others during the Indian Wars campaigns and produced this memoir. This particular edition was published by the R. R. Donnelly printing company for their annual Christmas gift in 1955. This was an era where the western reigned supreme at the cinema and in the budding world of television. Not only was Finerty's tale of westward expansion, paternalism and aggressive condescension towards native Americans lauded during his time, but was perfectly acceptable in Eisenhower-era America. From this point in the 21st century, the attitudes expressed leave one completely aghast. His cavalier description of U.S. troops firing on a surprised group of Indians and the sounds of the babies crying will break your heart. However, as a period piece it perfectly reflected the mood of the country. Finerty's insight into the workings and hardships of military encampments on the move, relations between the various tribes and European immigrants and the most suitable length to leave your stirrups for a long journey are fascinating reading.… (meer)