In Playing Indian, Philip J. Deloria explores the complex and often contradictory relationship between Native American identity and American culture. This insightful work examines how non-Native Americans have adopted and performed Native identities throughout history, from colonial settlers donning Native attire during the Boston Tea Party to the romanticized depictions of Indigenous culture in the Boy Scouts and other organizations.

Deloria unpacks the ways these performances have shaped national identity, highlighting themes of cultural appropriation, erasure, and the ongoing struggle for Indigenous representation and sovereignty. Combining historical analysis with cultural critique, Playing Indian is a compelling read for anyone interested in understanding the intersections of race, identity, and history in the United States.

Perfect for scholars, students, or readers curious about cultural studies and American history, this book challenges us to rethink how we engage with and represent Indigenous cultures.

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