"Parins's clear and comprehensive biography should be read by anyone interested in Indian policy, Cherokee history, or the history of the American West."-Andrew Denson, Register of the Kentucky Historical Society -- Andrew Denson Register of the Kentucky Historical Society "Parins provides the facts in a straightforward manner and lets readers draw their own conclusions as to Boudinot's place in history... Elias Cornelius Boudinot is a figure who will remain controversial. He was both respected and hated in his attempt to push the Cherokee into the white world. Parins's biographical work helps us understand Boudinot's drive to be a success for himself and for his people."-Daryl Morrison, Kansas History -- Daryl Morrison Kansas History "Parins gives a full account of a man who was closely involved in the life of the western Cherokees in the last half of the 19th century."-Choice Choice "James Parins' revealing, expertly-researched, and brilliantly-written work on Elias Cornelius Boudinot should be acknowledged as a major contribution to the craft of biography as well as the fields of Cherokee studies and U.S. history."-Alice Taylor-Colbert, Arkansas Historical Quarterly Arkansas Historical Quarterly "Although [Boudinot] built his enterprises on Cherokee lands, he was more comfortable and better accepted among non-Indians in Fort Smith, Arkansas, or Washington, D.C. Parins presents this Cornelius Boudinot with humor and understanding, providing a fresh look at a complex man."-Mary Jane Warde, Western Historical Quarterly -- Mary Jane Warde Western Historical Quarterly