When the Pueblo Indians say, "The first white man our people saw was a black man," they are referring to Esteban, who came to New Mexico in 1539. This book aims to highlight the importance of Esteban in the early history of America, a figure who has been largely ignored or diminished in the literature about the history of the American West.
Books about the history of the American West have often overlooked Esteban or have belittled his significance, frequently using his slave nickname, "Estebanico." The limited information we have about Esteban comes primarily from the accounts of Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca and other Spanish chroniclers, whose condescending attitudes toward the African slave have been perpetuated in most history books.
This work by Herrick seeks to dispel the myths and falsehoods that have surrounded Esteban. The biography places the emphasis on Esteban himself, rather than on the exploits of the Spaniards, whose chronicles are often exaggerated and jingoistic in nature. Herrick gives Esteban full credit for his courage, his linguistic prowess, and his role as a cultural intermediary who was trusted and respected by the Native American tribes across the continent.
After centuries of negative portrayals, this book aims to restore Esteban's rightful place in the early history of America. The author challenges the prevailing narratives that have marginalized or diminished the importance of this remarkable individual, who was the first "white man" encountered by the Pueblo Indians.
Herrick's work provides a more nuanced and balanced perspective on Esteban's life and contributions, shedding light on the complexities and diversity of the early encounters between European explorers and the indigenous peoples of the Americas. By centering Esteban's story, the book offers a fresh and important contribution to our understanding of this pivotal period in American history.
product information:
| Attribute | Value |
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- Intimate Songs
- $21.00
