The Buffalo Book: The Full Saga Of The American Animal - Paperback

by David A. Dary (Author)

The journals and memoirs of nineteeth-century explorers and travelers in the American West often told of viewing buffalo massed together as far as the eye could see. This book appropriately covers the subject of the buffalo as extensively as that animal covered the plains. Other recent accounts of the buffalo have focused on two or three aspects, emphasizing its natural history, the hunters and the hunted in prehistoric time, the relationship between the buffalo and the American Indian. David Dary's treatment stretches from horizon to horizon. Of course he discusses the origin of the buffalo in North America, its locations and migrations, its habits, its significance and role in both Indian and white cultures, its near demise, its salvation. But more. Dary weaves throughout his fact-filled book fascinating threads of lore and legend of this animal that literally helped mold who and what America is. Further, in addition to detailing the extinction which almost befell this mythic beast and the attempts to give life again to the herds, Dary concentrates significant attention on the buffalo as part of America in terms of captivity, husbandry, and symbol.

Back Jacket

This book weaves fascinating threads of buffalo lore and legend with fact, culminating in an authoritative portrait of an animal that is part of the cultural experience and heritage of America.

Author Biography

David A. Dary was professor emeritus and former head of what is now the Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Oklahoma. He was the author of more than 20 books.