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Abenakis Chief Joseph Laurent
AuthorBio
Joseph Laurent (1839-1917) was an Abenaki Chief, author, entrepreneur and teacher. While Laurent is known for leading the Abenaki reserve of Odanak as well as establishing a trading post in Interval, New Hampshire, he is most recognized as the author of New Familiar Abenakis and English Dialogues. Published in 1884, the book would serve as Laurent’s crowning achievement–being the first dictionary to translate the Abenaki language to English as well as being one of the first literary productions of the Abenaki tribe in general.