Dee Brown
Biography of Dee Brown
Full Name and Common Aliases
Dee Alexander Brown, commonly known as Dee Brown, was an influential American author and historian. His full name is often overshadowed by his widely recognized moniker, Dee Brown, under which he published his most significant works.
Birth and Death Dates
Dee Brown was born on February 28, 1908, and passed away on December 12, 2002. His life spanned nearly a century, during which he made substantial contributions to literature and historical scholarship.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Dee Brown was an American by nationality. He was a prolific author, historian, and librarian. His professional life was dedicated to writing and educating others about American history, with a particular focus on the American West and Native American history.
Early Life and Background
Dee Brown was born in Alberta, Louisiana, and grew up in Arkansas. His early life in the rural South exposed him to the rich tapestry of American history and folklore, which would later influence his writing. Brown's passion for storytelling and history was evident from a young age. He pursued higher education at Arkansas State Teachers College, now known as the University of Central Arkansas, and later earned a master's degree in library science from George Washington University. His academic background laid the foundation for his dual career as a librarian and a writer.
Major Accomplishments
Dee Brown's career was marked by numerous accomplishments, but he is best known for his groundbreaking work in historical literature. His ability to weave compelling narratives from historical events set him apart as a historian. Brown's major accomplishment was his role in reshaping the narrative of American history to include the perspectives of Native Americans, which had been largely overlooked in mainstream historical accounts.
Notable Works or Actions
Dee Brown's most notable work is undoubtedly "Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee: An Indian History of the American West," published in 1970. This seminal book brought to light the injustices faced by Native Americans during the westward expansion of the United States. It was a departure from traditional historical accounts, as it presented history from the perspective of the indigenous peoples. The book became a bestseller and has been translated into multiple languages, cementing Brown's reputation as a significant voice in historical literature.
In addition to "Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee," Brown authored over 30 books, including novels, children's books, and other historical works. His dedication to uncovering and presenting the truth about American history earned him a place among the most respected historians of his time.
Impact and Legacy
Dee Brown's impact on historical literature and the broader understanding of American history is profound. His work challenged the dominant narratives and encouraged a more inclusive approach to history. By highlighting the experiences and struggles of Native Americans, Brown's writings contributed to a greater awareness and appreciation of their history and culture.
His legacy is evident in the continued relevance of his works, particularly "Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee," which remains a crucial text for those studying American history and Native American studies. Brown's influence extends beyond academia; his work has inspired countless readers to reconsider the complexities of history and the importance of diverse perspectives.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Dee Brown is widely quoted and remembered for his ability to give a voice to the voiceless through his meticulous research and compelling storytelling. His work resonates with readers because it challenges them to confront uncomfortable truths about the past. Brown's quotes often reflect his deep empathy for the marginalized and his commitment to justice and truth.
His writings continue to be a source of inspiration and reflection for historians, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the multifaceted history of the United States. Dee Brown's legacy as a historian who dared to tell the stories that needed to be told ensures that he will be remembered and quoted for generations to come.
Quotes by Dee Brown
Dee Brown's insights on:
Women in the West who insisted on wearing the full-skirted modes of the nineteenth century – including the hoop-skirt, the bustle, and Mother Hubbards – fought a continual battle against a hostile environment. The fact that flowing yards of silk and satin eventually won out over buckskin and rawhide is only one more confirmation of the theory that woman’s vanity can conquer all, any place and any time.
He was so certain it was the right thing to do. And we all know, don’t we, gentlemen, of the deadliness of righteous men?
A short time later, near Gallina Springs, Graydon’s scouting party came upon the Mescaleros again. What happened there is not clear, because no Mescalero survived the incident.
Such a development endangered the entire Indian policy of the government, which aimed to eradicate everything Indian among the tribes and make them over into white men.
If the buffalo herd was a large one, sometimes the train would stop for an hour or so, the conductor, engineer, and entire crew joining the passengers in the sport. An.
A bonnet costs twenty dollars, and implies a shawl and gown to match. A bonnet to one wife, with shawl and gown to match, implies the like to every other wife.” The man paused, shook his head ruefully and concluded: “This taste for female finery is breaking up our Mormon homes. Brigham Young may soon be the only man in Salt Lake City rich enough to clothe a dozen wives.”28.
Another Chief remembered that since the Great Father promised them that they would never be moved they had been moved five times. “I think you had better put the Indians on wheels,” he said sardonically, “and you can run them about whenever you wish.
Participants in the massacre were later tried in Tucson and acquitted. To murder an Indian was considered no crime.