About this Book

According to its public institutions, there are no Indians in Pennsylvania. This seems odd, considering the fact that many European settlers met Native Americans for the first time there, but in fact the state is amongst the few not to recognize and Native American nations and to have no reservations. Minderhout and Frantz sought out those who considered themselves Native Americans in Pennsylvania, despite their being "invisible" as a people to state government. The book examines the history of Native Americans in Pennsylvania and their status under the law, stereotypes and myths Indians face, their personal identity and spirituality, conflicts, organizations and events. The results clearly show what happens when people are marginalized out of official existence.