Working from entirely different traditions of combat and honor, the Native Americans' typical ambush and raiding tactics, based on indigenous hunting techniques, have often been misunderstood by European observers who used to a more direct style if warfare. Native American Warriors explores the history of Native American combat from 1500 to the late nineteenth century, encompassing the period in which North America was colonized and transformed into the United States and Canada. This book covers many different aspects of Native American warfare, including fundamental changes brought about by the introduction of the horse and firearms, the use of mounted hit-and-run tactics by the plains-dwelling Sioux, the construction of the war lodges by Blackfoot Raiders, and the widespread use of camouflage and stealth tactics by tribes such as the Cherokee. This illustrated book examines the various tribes that fought both themselves and the various European colonizers across the North American continent, and how the equipment and training of the braves within each tribe developed over time. From the first contact tribes in New England to the remote tribes of the Northwest, the book examines the significant differences between how warriors actually fought, the equipment they used to fight, and the reason why such different combat techniques were used. It also demonstrates the effects of European and American technology on how Native American braves waged war. With detailed color illustrations and fact-filled accompanying text, Native American Warriors is the essential guide for any enthusiast for the period.

Author Biography

Chris McNab specializes in military history and military technology. He has published more than 100 books, including the Haynes Kubelwagen/Schwimmwagen Manual, Roman Soldier Operations Manual, Dreadnought Battleship, Siege Warfare, Falklands War, and the RAF Chinook Manual. Chris has also written extensively for major encyclopedia series, magazines and newspapers, and has made TV appearances as an expert commentator for Discover, Sky and History channels.