This volume is full of good reading, a treasury of fascinating insights into the history and legends of the Big Reservation, the Navajo People, and their complex faith. I wish I had this volume fifty years ago. It's a wonderful piece of work.
Tony Hillerman
Anyone interested in Navajo Country will find this book indispensable.... Linford stresses the Navajo story from their point of view, providing information that is useful while avoiding anything of a sensitive religious nature. The result is an informative and well-researched reference book that will stand for a long time.
Journal of the West
Linford has taken on a difficult task and succeeded. The book is well-written and fills the void of a handy reference for Navajo place names. It is recommended for anyone interested in an introduction to Navajo names and views of the land.
Utah Historical Quarterly
An outstanding account of places located on or near the Navajo reservation.
Navajo Culture Today
A treasure trove of information in the land, peoples and history of the Four Corners area.... Many entries are extensive and will provide anyone interested in the land and people of this region with hours of illuminating and engaging reading.
Native Peoples
No comparable work provides this much geography from a Navajo perspective. Highly recommended for institutions supporting Native American studies or the history of the Southwest.
CHOICE
About the Author
Laurance Linford was trained as an archaeologist. Formerly executive director of the Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial Association in Gallup, NM, he is now an administrator for the Gallup-McKinley County Public Schools.
Table of Contents
List of Maps
List of Tables
List of Abbreviations
Preface
1. Introduction
Physiography
The People
Before the Navajos: 10,000 B.C.–A.D. 1600
The Navajos: Pre-1600 to Present
The Archaeological /Historical Perspective
The Traditional Navajo Perspective
Intrusion of the Spaniards:
A.D. 1541–1821
• Explorations
• Colonization
• The Wars
The Mexicans: 1821–1846
The Americans: 1846–Present
• The Early Years
• The Navajos Capitulate
• The Long Walk
• The Reservation Years: 1868–Present
Navajo Social Organization
• Political Organization
• Chapters
2. The Role of Mythology in Navajo Place Name Origins
The Practice
The Ceremonies
Holyway Ceremonies:
• Shooting Chant
• Mountain Chant
• God Impersonators
• Wind Chant
• Hand-Trembling Chant
• Eagle Trapping
• Uncertain Affiliation
Evilway Ceremonies
Lifeway Ceremonies
3. The Trading Posts
4. Arizona Locations
5. Colorado Locations
6. New Mexico Locations
7. Utah Locations
References
