The author links the modern existence of the Crow Indian nation with their19th-century nomadic life which, along with contact with outsiders, drew the Crows together and tested their ability to adapt their traditions to new conditions. He emphasizes political life, but also describes changes in social relations, religious beliefs, and economic activities. 24 photos. 6 maps.

Prologue: why are there no Indians in the twentieth century? Part I. Into History, 1805-1890: 1. Immigration in reverse; 2. Parading into history; 3. Life in a tightening circle; 4. Refugees at the agency; 5. A new home; Part II. The Making of a Nation, 1890-1920: 6. Searching for structure: Crow families in transition; 7. New gods in Crow country: the development of religious pluralism; 8. Leaders in a new arena; 9. Making a living: the Crow economy, 1890-1920; Part III. Being Crow 1920-1935: 10. Stability and dependency in the 1920s; 11. 'Standing for rights: the Crow rejection of the Indian reorganization act'; 12. Crows and other Americans.