Reviews

The Modoc War (1872-73) pitted the U.S. against a small tribe of Indians living on the border between Oregon and California. Victims of encroaching white settlers, the Modocs were removed to a reservation they were forced to share with the Klamath tribe, their longtime rivals. When relations between the tribes deteriorated, the Modocs moved off to the volcanic lava beds adjacent to Tule Lake. President Grant, influenced by peace advocates, tried to find a nonviolent solution to the problem. After this failed, the U.S. Army moved in, was repulsed in bloody battle and brought in reinforcements. Quinn (The Rivals) presents a balanced treatment of this unhappy episode, but not one without dramatic flair. His writing is compelling and vivid, especially when describing the final negotiation that led to the murder of General Edward R.S. Canby and others by the Modocs. Quinn presents realistic portrayals of the figures involved-Indian agent Alfred B. Meacham, Modoc chief Captain Jack, Scarfaced Charley, Curley Headed Doctor, Tobey and Frank Riddle and a cast of supporting characters. Broad in scope, the book covers the earlier history of the Modocs, the war, the execution of tribal leaders and the tribe's ultimate fate. It is sure to place readers-avid for a rare look at a forgotten war-on the edge of their seats. (Mar.)