The Autobiography of Ma-Ka-Tai-Me-She-Kia-Kiak, or Black Hawk

Black Hawk

The Autobiography of Ma-Ka-Tai-Me-She-Kia-Kiak, or Black Hawk — Black Hawk was a Sauk warrior and war leader in the American Midwest during an era of conflict and dispossession. He recalls his youth, his ancestors’ sacred bundle, fighting with neighboring nations, and his alliance with the British during the War of 1812. His account challenges the land treaties used to remove his people from their home. Their return across the Mississippi in 1832 brought confrontation with US troops and militia. He describes attacks on his peace messengers, subsequent battles and raids, defeat, and captivity. He was later taken through eastern cities to demonstrate American power before being allowed to return west; he spent his remaining years in Iowa. Black Hawk dictated his story through interpreter Antoine Le Claire, and J. B. Patterson recorded and published it in 1833. Memories of village life, traditions, and family stand beside descriptions of warfare, displacement, and loss. This personal account conveys both pride in his people and grief over the changes forced upon them.

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