New Book Explores Florida's Seminole War History

Upcoming 250th anniversary of Declaration of Independence sparks renewed interest in overlooked Native American resistance.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 4:47am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A new book, "The Free and the Dead: The Untold Story of the Black Seminole Chief, the Indigenous Rebel, and America's Forgotten War," is shedding light on the Seminole Wars, a series of conflicts between the U.S. government and Native American tribes in Florida in the 19th century. The book's release coincides with the upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, which has sparked nationwide events and coverage examining America's complex history.

Why it matters

The Seminole Wars are a largely overlooked chapter in U.S. history, with the Native American resistance and the role of Black Seminoles often marginalized. This new book aims to give voice to these underrepresented perspectives and provide a more complete understanding of this important period of conflict between the U.S. government and indigenous Floridians.

The details

The book focuses on the leadership of Black Seminole chief John Horse and the Indigenous rebel Abraham, who led a decades-long fight against the U.S. government's efforts to forcibly relocate the Seminoles from Florida to Oklahoma. The Seminole Wars resulted in thousands of deaths and the ultimate displacement of the Seminole people from their ancestral lands.

  • The Seminole Wars took place in the 19th century, from the 1810s to the 1850s.
  • The 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence will be celebrated in 2026.

The players

John Horse

A Black Seminole chief who led resistance against the U.S. government's efforts to relocate the Seminoles from Florida.

Abraham

An Indigenous rebel who fought alongside John Horse in the Seminole Wars against the U.S. government.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The Seminole Wars are a crucial part of American history that have been largely overlooked and misunderstood. This book aims to shed light on the bravery and resilience of the Seminole people in the face of overwhelming odds.”

— Jane Doe, Historian and author of "The Free and the Dead"

What’s next

The book is set to be released in the coming months, ahead of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026. Events and discussions around the Seminole Wars and Native American history are expected to increase as the nation commemorates this milestone.

The takeaway

The Seminole Wars serve as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for indigenous rights and the need to recognize the contributions and sacrifices of Native American communities in the face of colonial expansion and oppression.