Big Bear

Big Bear (1825-1888) is specifically written to meet the needs of adolescents and adults who are reluctant readers. The photographs, maps, and illustrations reflect the text, making the words easy to decode. This high-interest, low-vocabulary biography is ideal for English as a Second Language or adult basic education students.

Big Bear was a famous Cree leader who hoped for peace between the white settlers and the Cree. He signed a peace treaty with the Blackfoot, believing that violence does not bring peace. He held out on signing Treaty 6 hoping to win more rights for his people. In the end, Big Bear had no choice but to sign the treaty. Broken promises led to bloodshed at Frog Lake and Fort Pitt in spite of Big Bear's efforts to promote peace. Big Bear was found guilty of treason and imprisoned for one year. He died in 1888.