In 1877, Standing Bear's Ponca Indian tribe was forcibly removed from its lands in Nebraska and marched south to Indian Territory. I Am a Man tells the story of Standing Bear's efforts to reclaim his lands and rights, ending in his successful use of habeas corpus to gain access to the courts and ultimately his freedoms. This is a story of survival, of a people who arose from the ashes of injustice, disease, neglect, alcoholism, and starvation. It explores fundamental issues of citizenship, constitutional protection, and the nature of democracy - issues that continue to resonate loudly in 21st century America. Starita's well researched and insightful account reads like historical fiction - his careful characterizations and vivid descriptions bring this piece of American history brilliantly to life.