Warriors, statesmen, prophets and scholars; they were the firmest of friends and the most formidable of foes. They are heroes and heroines of all manners in the often tragic, yet inspiring chronicle of The North American Native. Most-but not all-of the individuals whose lives are briefly described in this book were Chiefs. Some have become legends within American history and famous worldwide. But all were leaders in the immense struggle to preserve their treasured lands, customs, beliefs and way of life. With their tribesmen, they are intimately linked to America's founding, westward expansion, and at times, the inhumane treatment they received at the hands of the United States Government. Since the first Europeans set foot in North America, Native Americans have played a vital role in this country and it extends to this day. They deserve the nations respect and they certainly hold a place of honor in America's history. No one can cast doubt on their courage to defend their lands against ever increasing encroachment by the government and the unrestrained increase of westward settlers which progressed into a period known as the Indian Wars. Remember, North America was their homeland for thousands of years before the first foreigner arrived. Consider this point; what if today America was invaded by a foreign military which forcibly removed you from your home and engaged in bloody warfare against you, your family and fellow countrymen. Wouldn't you wage war against the invaders? Wouldn't you defend your family, land and rights? We must not forget that defending their family and lands is exactly what the Native Americans did. At times they were forced to fight with a brutal vengeance, and many times they were unmercifully attacked by an equally brutal and ruthless U.S. Government. The history of Native Americans has proven they were great warriors with unmatched bravery, great patriots and others were eminent peacemakers possessing immense wisdom and kindness. There are thousands of Native Americans worthy of inclusion in this book. However, for brevity I have limited the number. This book covers nearly 300 years of glorious Native American history.