Thomas John Lappas, "In League Against King Alcohol" (U Oklahoma Press, 2020)

Thomas John Lappas, "In League Against King Alcohol" (U Oklahoma Press, 2020)

Picture this: Native American women banding together with the Woman's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) to combat alcohol abuse in their communities. It's a chapter of American history that's often overlooked but incredibly significant. In this episode of 'New Books in Drugs, Addiction and Recovery', host David Dry sits down with historian Thomas John Lappas to discuss his enlightening book, 'In League Against King Alcohol: Native American Women and the Woman's Christian Temperance Union, 1874–1933'.

Lappas sheds light on how these women, while embracing Christian and progressive values, maintained their unique Indigenous identities and fought for social, economic, and political progress. The discussion dives into the role of the WCTU in Native American communities across various states, from New York to Oklahoma, and explores the profound impact of alcohol abuse on these communities. You'll also hear about the importance of raising future leaders and the complex interplay between Christianity and federal Indian policies.

Whether you're a history buff or someone interested in the dynamics of addiction and recovery, this episode offers a compelling look at a lesser-known but crucial part of American cultural history.