@gutenberg_org@mastodon.social I highly recommend reading 'The Life and Adventures of James P. Beckwourth as Told to Thomas D. Bonner'

https://archive.org/details/adventuresoflife00beckrich

James Pierson #Beckwourth (April 26, 1798/1800 – October 20, 1866) was an American fur trapper, rancher, businessman, explorer, author and scout. Known as "Bloody Arm" because of his skill as a fighter, Beckwourth was of multiracial descent, being born into slavery in Frederick County, Virginia. He was eventually emancipated by his enslaver, who was also his father, and apprenticed to a blacksmith so that he could learn a trade.

As a young man, Beckwourth moved to the Western United States, first making connections with fur traders in St. Louis, Missouri. As a mountain man, he lived with the Crow people for several years. He is credited with the discovery of Beckwourth Pass, the lowest pass through the Sierra Nevada, connecting Reno, Nevada, and Portola, California during the California Gold Rush.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Beckwourth

#JamesPBeckwourth #BlackMastodon