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Gerad M. Smith

The Gift of the Middle Tanana: Dene Pre-Colonial History in the Alaskan Interior

The Gift of the Middle Tanana: Dene Pre-Colonial History in the Alaskan Interior

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  • More about The Gift of the Middle Tanana: Dene Pre-Colonial History in the Alaskan Interior


In The Gift of the Middle Tanana, Gerad Smith explores the history, ethnography, and archaeological record of the Native people in the Middle Tanana Valley in Alaska, arguing that the potlatch was a mechanism of regional social cohesion that dictated everyday life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 316 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books


The Middle Tanana Valley in Alaska continues to hold immense significance in archaeological research, serving as a vital region on the continent. In his book titled "The Gift of the Middle Tanana: Dene Pre-Colonial History in the Alaskan Interior," Gerad Smith delves into the rich history, ethnography, and archaeological evidence of the Native people who inhabited this area during the late Holocene. Smith establishes an interpretive framework that draws upon Alaskan Native traditions, with a particular emphasis on traditional place names and the profound rituals of reciprocity. Through his research, Smith argues that the local themes and oral traditions of the potlatch should be viewed not as isolated ceremonial events but rather as a vital mechanism of regional social cohesion that governed everyday life.

The Gift of the Middle Tanana vividly showcases how reciprocal deep-play played a pivotal role in shaping a traditional society that has endured for over a thousand years. Smith's meticulous exploration of this region's past offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of indigenous societies, shedding light on their cultural practices, beliefs, and social structures. This book is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Native people in Alaska and their profound connection to the land and its history.

In conclusion, "The Gift of the Middle Tanana" is a groundbreaking work that contributes significantly to our understanding of the pre-colonial history of the Alaskan Interior. Through his meticulous research and insightful analysis, Gerad Smith has provided a valuable contribution to the field of archaeology, shedding light on the rich cultural heritage of the Native people in this region. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in indigenous studies, history, and the complexities of human societies.

Weight: 503g
Dimension: 231 x 154 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793654786

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