Laura Ingalls Wilder's Real Life And Times, And Debate Over Use Of Native American Imagery

By Steve Kraske,

Published February 7, 2018 at 5:38 PM CST

Caroline Fraser's biography of beloved children's author Laura Ingalls Wilder reveals a life that "was harder and grittier" than the one portrayed in the Little House books. Today, Fraser explains how she was able to piece together Laura's life beyond the books, including the often contentious relationship with her daughter, the journalist Rose Wilder Lane.

Then, the Cleveland Indians' recent decision to retire its controversial mascot in 2019 has reinvigorated discussions about the proper use of Native American imagery. Sports management expert Brian Gordon, and Haskell Indian Nations University's Cody Marshall explain why some teams' mascots, customs and logos remain so troublesome.

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Steve Kraske

When I host Up To Date each morning at 9, my aim is to engage the community in conversations about the Kansas City area’s challenges, hopes and opportunities. I try to ask the questions that listeners want answered about the day’s most pressing issues and provide a place for residents to engage directly with newsmakers. Reach me at steve@kcur.org or on Twitter @stevekraske.

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Danie Alexander

As senior producer of Up To Date, I want our listeners to hear familiar and new voices that shine light on the issues and challenges facing the myriad communities KCUR serves, and to expose our audiences to the wonderful and the creative in the Kansas City area. Just as important to me is an obligation to mentor the next generation of producers to ensure that the important conversations continue. Reach me at alexanderdk@kcur.org.

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