Shopping Cart

Picture of Zitkála-Šá

Zitkála-Šá

Biography and Books

Biography

Zitkála-Šá, also known as Gertrude Simmons Bonnin, was a prominent Native American writer, musician, and activist born on February 22, 1876, in Dakota Territory. As a member of the Yankton Sioux Nation, she drew deeply from her cultural heritage, intertwining her personal experiences with the broader struggles of Native Americans in her literary work. Zitkála-Šá attended the Carlisle Indian Industrial School, where she faced the challenges of assimilation and cultural erasure, experiences that would profoundly shape her writing. Her notable works, including “American Indian Stories” and “Old Indian Legends,” reflect her commitment to preserving Indigenous narratives and advocating for Native American rights, blending folklore with poignant social commentary.

In addition to her literary contributions, Zitkála-Šá was a passionate advocate for Native American education and rights, co-founding the National Council of American Indians in 1926. Her multifaceted talents extended to music, where she composed operas and collaborated with influential musicians of her time. Throughout her life, she worked tirelessly to elevate Native voices, challenge stereotypes, and promote cultural understanding. Zitkála-Šá’s legacy continues to resonate, inspiring future generations of writers and activists to honor and celebrate Indigenous identities and stories.

Books

Sort by:
0.0/5
| In Stock
Old Indian Legends is a collection of Dakota legends, retold by the 19th and early 20th-century Dakota author Zitkála-Šá. The collection was compiled in 1901 when Zitkála...
$29.99
Available book types
0.0/5
| In Stock
American Indian Stories is the second story collection by Dakota author Zitkála-Šá. In contrast to her earlier collection Old Indian Legends, which is a collection of tra...
$29.99
Available book types