Man Called Horse: John Horse and the Black Seminole Underground Railroad: John Horse and the Black Seminole Underground Railroad

John Horse was a Black Seminole warrior, chief, and diplomat who fought for his people's freedom on the Underground Railroad. He defended them from the US government, other tribes, and slave hunters and negotiated terms with the federal government. His biography depicts him as a complex, fascinating figure who served in many varied roles, including counselor, agent, and captain.

Format: Hardback
Length: 112 pages
Publication date: 11 November 2021
Publisher: Abrams

John Horse, a renowned Black Seminole warrior, chief, tactician, and diplomat, played a pivotal role in Black Seminole affairs for over fifty years. His story is integral to the Black Seminoles, descendants of Seminole Indians, free Blacks, and escaped slaves who formed an alliance in Spanish Florida. Horse, a political and military leader of mixed Seminole and African heritage, defended his people from the US government, other tribes, and slave hunters.

A Man Called Horse delves into the lesser-known life of Horse while also providing a historical context for Native Americans, particularly Black Seminoles. After participating in the Second Seminole War (1835–1842), one of the longest and most costly Native American conflicts in US history, Horse negotiated terms with the federal government and later became a guide and interpreter. Due to forced relocation, he led a group of Black Seminoles to find a new home, first heading westward to Texas and later to Mexico.

Turner collaborated with Horse's descendants, who provided oral histories, photographs, and other artifacts. Her meticulously researched and vetted biography portrays Horse as a multifaceted individual who served in various roles, including counselor to fellow Seminole leaders, an agent of the US government, and a captain in the Mexican army. However, regardless of the role he played, Horse remained steadfast in his commitment to helping his people survive, whether in battle or during negotiations.

The story of John Horse is a testament to his courage and determination.

Weight: 404g
Dimension: 151 x 209 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781419749339