Native American Lives: Charles Albert Bender - Hall of Fame Pitcher

The Minnesota Humanities Center presents Minnesota Native American Lives, a series showcasing the stories of three exceptional individuals from the state, each making remarkable contributions in the realms of sports, language, and government.

Charles Albert Bender, the first Minnesotan to be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame, is renowned for inventing the slider, a crucial pitch in his arsenal as a World Series-winning pitcher. Bender's journey was one of resilience and determination, as he grew up in poverty on a farm, working tirelessly in the fields. His life was further shaped by the experience of attending an Indian boarding school in Pennsylvania, far from his home and family.

Despite the challenges he faced, Bender embodied a relentless work ethic, defining his success by the level of effort he dedicated to his craft. His story stands as a testament to the remarkable lives of Minnesota's Native American community.

Ella Cara Deloria, another subject of the Minnesota Native American Lives Series, made significant contributions to the preservation and understanding of the Dakota language and culture. As a linguist and anthropologist, Deloria dedicated her life's work to documenting the rich heritage of her people, ensuring their traditions and ways of life were not lost to the ravages of time.

The third individual featured in the series is Peggy Flanagan, a trailblazing figure in Minnesota politics. As the current Lieutenant Governor of the state, Flanagan has shattered glass ceilings, becoming the highest-ranking Native American woman in elected office in the United States. Her inspiring journey serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment for the Native American community, both in Minnesota and across the nation.

The Minnesota Native American Lives Series invites readers to explore the extraordinary lives of these three individuals, each of whom has left an indelible mark on their respective fields and the state they call home. By highlighting their stories, the series celebrates the resilience, accomplishments, and enduring legacy of Minnesota's Native American community.

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