Encounters at the Heart of the World: A History of the Mandan People

"Encounters at the Heart of the World" explores the history and culture of the Mandan people of the Northern Plains. Elizabeth A. Fenn examines their social structures, agricultural practices, and trade networks. The book highlights the Mandan's interactions with European explorers and settlers. It discusses the impact of disease and colonization on their population. Fenn emphasizes the resilience and adaptability of the Mandan in the face of change. The narrative includes insights from archaeological findings and historical documents. The author places the Mandan within the broader context of North American history. She addresses themes of identity and cultural continuity. The work contributes to a deeper understanding of Indigenous histories. Fenn's research underscores the significance of the Mandan in shaping regional dynamics.