A synthesis of the works of Francis La Flesche, an Omaha Indian and anthropologist who documented the religion of the Osage Indians in the early 20th century and left a record of the initiation rituals of the last functioning Mississippian priesthood. Includes La Flesche's data for two important Osage religious ceremonies for initiation into clan and tribal priesthoods, plus a short biography of the Native American scholar and an overview of traditional Osage religious beliefs and practices. Contains b&w photos and illustrations. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.