The Pueblo Revolt of 1680 challenged Spanish colonial authority and reshaped the historical narrative of conquest in the Americas. This book examines the complex factors leading to the revolt, including the suppression of indigenous religions, forced labor, and Spanish brutality. It analyzes the strategies and motivations of the Pueblo leaders, particularly Popé, and the subsequent Spanish reconquest. Wilcox investigates how the memory and interpretation of this pivotal event have been shaped by subsequent historical accounts and the concept of the 'mythology of conquest'.

The book is recognized for its detailed examination of the Pueblo Revolt, moving beyond simplistic narratives of conquest. It is noted for its critical engagement with historical interpretations and the construction of colonial narratives. The work is considered a significant contribution to understanding indigenous resistance and the complexities of Spanish colonization in the Southwest. It offers a nuanced perspective on the long-term consequences of the revolt and its place in American history.