A broad synthesis of contemporary Native American history, this vital and timely book surveys the recent political, economic, social, and cultural history of Indians of the United States. The theme of survival and balance prevails in this complex history of how Indians have survived overwhelming odds to endure as a distinct people. The nine chapters chronicle the evolution of federal Indian policy, social and economic issues, the rise of the Indian rights movement, cultural stereotypes, and the image of the Native people in popular culture.