Washo tribal history, including ancient Washo culture and the impact of white civilization on that way of life, is related in this book, which is one in a series of four histories of native Nevadans who once occupied the Great Basin area, and is based on interviews with knowledgeable tribal members and research in numerous archives. The first two chapters describe the three major geographical groups of the original Washo Tribe and discuss the common culture uniting the groups: traditional family life, marriage, child rearing, hunting, plant use, basketmaking, sports, religion, and medicine. Chapter three retells Washo legends, which preserve important historical events and instruct the young in tribal morality and practical knowledge. Chapters four and five describe the first contacts with non-Indians in the early 1800's and trace the growing influx of whites who had, by 1900, taken over Washo lands and depleted the natural resources. The final chapters discuss the abuses associated with allotting land to the Washo, who received no reservations until 1917. A summary of tribal history in the twentieth century focuses on the preservation of traditional culture while improving living conditions and developing tribal resources. Maps, photographs and illustrations, footnotes, and a bibliography of 150 entries are included. (JH)