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

Ken Burns on America’s Unfinished Revolution

At Radcliffe, the filmmaker joined Harvard historians to discuss what the nation’s founding means today.

Paul Ryan Warns Congress Is Losing Power—and Blames Both Parties

At Harvard Kennedy School, the former House speaker reflected on executive overreach, DEI, and “wokeism.”

Department of Education Investigates Harvard Admissions and Antisemitism Claims

The University calls federal actions “retaliatory.” 

House - Email

Explore More From Current Issue

Cozy nook with a patterned rug and various colorful pillows against wooden walls.

Harvard History

At Harvard’s Beck-Warren House, Ghosts Speak Many Languages

The quirky 1833 home now hosts Celtic scholars.

A lively street scene at night with people in colorful costumes dancing joyfully.

Arts & Culture

Rabbi, Drag Queen, Film Star

Sabbath Queen, a new documentary, follows one man’s quest to make Judaism more expansive.

Illustration of a person sitting on a large cresting wave, writing, with a sunset and ocean waves in vibrant colors.

Arts & Culture

How Stories Help Us Cope with Climate Change

The growing genre of climate fiction offers a way to process reality—and our anxieties.