A Most Troublesome Situation: The British Military and the Pontiac Indian Uprising of 1763-1764 by Todish and Harburn

Arguably the most complete, concise history of the Pontiac Indian uprising ever published. By Timothy J. Todish and Todd E. Harburn. Softcover, 224 pages, 8-1/2" X 11", ISBN 1-930098-72-3.

The greatest Indian rebellion on the North American continent is re-examined by authors Timothy J. Todish and Todd E. Harburn. This intense study of the Pontiac Conspiracy is told mainly from the British perspective. Nevertheless, according to the authors, “we have made every effort to also accurately present the feelings and interests of the Indian and French habitants.”

 

Pontiac’s role in the uprising, which became the final conflict in the French and Indian War, has long been disputed among scholars. Was he as influential as his legend suggests, and what was the role of the Delaware named Neolin, or “The Prophet”? Through their intense study into all existing documentation, Todish and Harburn attempt to give a straightforward account of this final battle and the events leading up to it.

 

As noted by reviewer Chris Matheney, “The excellent and exacting artwork of historical artists Robert Griffing and Gary Zaboly add a superb dimension that is rarely seen in historical books today.” In addition to the images by these contemporary artists, numerous period illustrations, including paintings, period prints and maps, are shown. Photos of the forts and sites as they exist today are also included in an appendix.