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The clan is nothing more than a larger family, with its patriarchal chief as the natural head, and the union of several clans by intermarriage and voluntary connection constitutes the tribe.

— Charles Eastman The Essential Charles Eastman (Ohiyesa): Light on the Indian World (2007)

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More quotes by Charles Eastman

Many of the Indians believed that one may be born more than once, and there were some who claimed to have full knowledge of a former incarnation.

The Soul of the Indian: An Interpretation (1911)

In every religion there is an element of the supernatural, varying with the influence of pure reason over its devotees.

The Essential Charles Eastman (Ohiyesa): Light on the Indian World (2007)

He (the American Indian) believes profoundly in silence – the sign of a perfect equilibrium. Silence is the absolute poise or balance of the body, mind and spirit...

Certainly the Indian never doubted the immortal nature of the spirit or soul of man, but neither did he care to speculate upon its probable state or condition in a future life.

The Soul of the Indian: An Interpretation (1911)

The true Indian sets no price upon either his property or his labor. His generosity is limited only by his strength and ability.

The Essential Charles Eastman (Ohiyesa): Light on the Indian World (2007)

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Quote text and notes from Wikiquote: Charles Eastman (page history), available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Source quality and labels are our own summary of what Wikiquote records.