Liselotte Welskopf-Henrich und die Indianer

A Life for the Indians

Many people in the East and West will be familiar with the film "The Sons of the Great Bear." However, the author who provided the basis for the film with her eponymous novel series seems to have almost been forgotten: Liselotte Welskopf-Henrich. Her books, translated into 18 languages, enjoyed extraordinary popularity for decades. The total print run in the German-speaking world alone amounts to three and a half million. Liselotte Welskopf-Henrich's relationship with the Native Americans was characterized by lifelong, passionate involvement and scientific interest. This connection is reflected in her books, where she endeavored to provide a culturally and historically accurate and fair representation of the Indians based on thorough research. She sought to raise awareness of their issues and actively advocated for the improvement of their living conditions. Erik Lorenz tells the story of this extraordinary author and scholar—who was a professor of ancient history—and highlights the sources and motivations behind her literary work. Liselotte Welskopf-Henrich often speaks for herself in this narrative: through quotes or entire essays, some of which are published for the first time in this book.