The first book I finished in 2026 is An Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz. This is part of the ReVisioning History series from Beacon Press. I’ve not read any of the other books in this series, though I think I might pick one for later this year, as I enjoy reading history. And I’m not afraid to have my viewpoints expanded.

Dunbar-Ortiz covers almost 400 years of Native American history within the 300 pages of the book. It is not a comprehensive history but rather is the through line of how Native Americans have been treated throughout the history of the United States. From the start of colonial invasion, domestic and international policies haven’t changed that much – no matter the party in power.

Every page offers new insights and perspectives on our shared history. Some of the “heroes” of the revolution, frontier times, and western expansion you’ll recognize get pages written about them. But Native American history doesn’t stop there. She talks about more modern issues (pre-2014) including the Civil Rights Movement, Wounded Knee, Alcatraz and more.

I think everyone should read this book to better understand the history of the United States. Even if you just read some excerpts about your region or a time frame, you will learn a lot.