November 1, 2003

Buckskin Diplomacy

The objects Lewis and Clark acquired in negotiations with Indian nations have much to say.

by Christopher Reed

From The November-December 2003 Issue

Published in the November-December 2003 print issue in the Features section.

Read more articles by Christopher Reed

Most popular

Students writing at desks on wheels, racing ahead of a stationary student at a fixed desk

Why Men Are Falling Behind in Education, Employment, and Health

What to do as men and boys fall behind

Tall modern building with multiple floors and large windows against a cloudy sky.

Harvard Revamps Controversial Public Health School Center

The health and human rights center had drawn attention for its Palestine-related program.

Skyline view of Harvard University with trees in autumn colors and a river under a cloudy sky.

Harvard’s Class of 2029 Reflects Shifts in Racial Makeup After Affirmative Action Ends

International students continue to enroll amid political uncertainty; mandatory SATs lead to a drop in applications.

Explore More From Current Issue

Collage of six headshots of diverse individuals against a blurred outdoor background.

Meet the 2025 Harvard Alumni Association Honorands

Celebrating alumni volunteers

A diverse group of adults and children holding hands, standing on varying levels against a light blue background.

Social Sciences

Why America’s Strategy For Reducing Racial Inequality Failed

Harvard professor Christina Cross debunks the myth of the two-parent Black family.

Map showing Uralic populations in Eurasia, highlighting regional distribution and historical sites.

The Origins of Europe’s Most Mysterious Languages

A small group of Siberian hunter-gatherers changed the way millions of Europeans speak today.