In 1969, Ricahrd Oakes and Adam Fortunate Eagle, then known as Adam Nordwall, instigated an Invasion of Alcatraz by American Indians. has called -perhaps the most significant Indian action since the Little Bighorn.-.
Nevertheless, the occupation of Alcatraz remains what historian Vine Deloria, Jr.
Water and electricity were cut off, reports of conflict on the island began appearing in the press, and suspicious fires burned five buildings.
Memoranda from the White House recommended doing -anything- to turn the public against the occupation so it could be ended.
But the occupation lasted two years, and Oakes, who had become it spokesman, left after his stepdaughter\'s death on the island.
Alcatraz became home, and American Indians of all tribes became a family.
A school was started; chores and responsibilities were shared by everyone.
San Fransisco restaurants sent Thanksgiving dinner.
Sausalito sailors and their -navy- transported supplies and people to the island.
Money poured in from around the country.
From the start, public support was strong.
Accompanied by a variety of photographs capturing the people, places, and actions involved, Heart of the Rock brings these turbulent times vividly to life.
Fortunate Eagle provides an intimate memoir of the occupation and the events leading up to it.
From the mainland, Fortunate Eagle orchestrated the events, but they assumed an uncontrollable life of their own.
In 1969, Ricahrd Oakes and Adam Fortunate Eagle, then known as Adam Nordwall, instigated an Invasion of Alcatraz by American Indians
