In 1969, Ricahrd Oakes and Adam Fortunate Eagle, then known as
Adam Nordwall, instigated an invasion of Alcatraz by American
Indians. From the mainland, Fortunate Eagle orchestrated the
events, but they assumed an uncontrollable life of their own.
Fortunate Eagle provides an intimate memoir of the occupation and
the events leading up to it. Accompanied by a variety of
photographs capturing the people, places, and actions involved,
"Heart of the Rock" brings these turbulent times vividly to
life.
From the start, public support was strong. Money poured in from
around the country. Sausalito sailors and their "navy" transported
supplies and people to the island. San Fransisco restaurants sent
Thanksgiving dinner. A school was started; chores and
responsibilities were shared by everyone. Alcatraz became home, and
American Indians of all tribes became a family.
But the occupation lasted two years, and Oakes, who had become
it spokesman, left after his stepdaughter's death on the island.
Memoranda from the White House recommended doing "anything" to turn
the public against the occupation so it could be ended. Water and
electricity were cut off, reports of conflict on the island began
appearing in the press, and suspicious fires burned five buildings.
Nevertheless, the occupation of Alcatraz remains what historian
Vine Deloria, Jr. has called "perhaps the most significant Indian
action since the Little Bighorn."
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