Author Phillip B Gottfredson With Mayans for World Peace
The Author
Author Phillip B Gottfredson wrote, "When the world was created, Creator touched it with his hand, and so it is sacred and spiritual. The Land is our home, our mother, nourishing all her children. The Land is sacred and belongs to all who inhabit it."
The research for *My Journey To Understand Black Hawk's Mission of Peace* spanned two decades. This work aims to present a more authentic perspective on the Utah Black Hawk War by emphasizing Indigenous viewpoints that are frequently marginalized in historical narratives.
I don’t pretend to be Native American. But I lived them for over 2 decades, throughout North and South America. When elders from the Shoshone and other tribes graciously invited me to join meaningful ceremonies, I was deeply honored. These spiritual moments were personally transformative, altering my perspective on humanity and our sacred connection to Mother Earth. The elders welcomed me, shared their culture and wisdom, and asked that I honor their teachings by speaking the truth and sharing what I had learned. As they said, “They will listen to you because you are white.”
The spiritual experiences shared here push back against old-school and prejudiced stereotypes that have labeled Indigenous American Indians in negative ways. Teachings from these communities emphasize equality and remind us of our sacred responsibility to one another, the environment, and all living things. Gaining a deeper understanding of Indigenous cultures helps us become more thoughtful, respectful, and willing to question the stories we have been told about history.
Many scholars, historians, and writers overlook the enduring message of Indigenous America. This perspective asserts that all individuals share a common origin as descendants of our Creator.
Timpanogos Chief Black Hawk, honoring the teachings of his ancestors, conveyed a message of peace during his final journey, undertaken while suffering from a fatal gunshot wound In his last hours, he traveled approximately 180 miles by horseback from Cedar City in southern Utah to Payson. During this journey, he appealed to Mormon settlers to cease hostilities against his people, the enviornment, and pursue peaceful coexistence. Many misinterpret this journey as Black Hawk's surrender, but a man like this would never surrender. Early Mormon settlers did not reciprocate these efforts, showing a lack of recognition of shared humanity.
"Phillip has touched the lives of many..." Five Star Reviews!
My Journey to Understand ... Black Hawk's Mission of Peace grabbed me! The way you understand the Black Hawk War will change with Phillip B Gottfredson's detailed account, which brings the Timpanogos perspective to light—a viewpoint long overshadowed in history books. Through decades of living among First Nations people, Gottfredson shares insights from his spiritual journey and collaboration with tribal leaders. He uncovers the resilience and humanity of Timpanogos leader Black Hawk, who sought peace even in the face of devastation. This book offers more than history—it’s a powerful reflection on forgiveness, equality, and the sacred connection between humanity and the Earth. — that’s masterful storytelling. - James Timothy
"Mr. Gottfredson has done an amazing job of telling this story with passion and honesty. As you follow him through his journey of discovery, you will be captivated by his experiences. Bravo, Sir !" -Barely Ablemann, Washington DC
"This account is critical to understanding history from more than one perspective. This book brings light and knowledge to history that has been absent since the colonization of the United States." -J. Ferguson
"I finished reading your YOUR UNBELIEVABLE BOOK your experiences blew me away and I love how you dovetailed your views & everything so beautifully together!!! WOW WOW WOWWW!!!" - Gary Lee Price
"I am not exaggerating when I say that this book has changed my life. I can't recommend it enough". -Stephanie T Lundeen
"Diana and I have just finished reading a book that is told from the long forgotten Timpanogos Nation by Phil Gottfredson or Mr. Phil. My heart heaved. And the tears flowed from both our eyes as we heard the Indian version and their stories. This book ranks in the top 5 of all the hundreds of books that I have ever read in my life...and I have read hundreds if not thousands. Please purchase a copy of this book and read it. Truth matters. - Larry Ballard, Utah
"Wow... where do I start? I am grateful I read this book. I am grateful for the Author who wrote this book. I will be buying more copies to give away, and for sure recommending this book to as many will listen. 5-Stars" - Marcus Hadlock, Utah
from my heart to yours, THANK YOU ! 
cornerstone in the annals of Utah's history. This book, a firsthand tell-all account of Brigham Young's extermination of the Timpanogos Nation, holds a special place in Phillip's heart. It offers a vital perspective on early settlement in the Great Basin and the devastating consequences of settler colonialism from the perspective of Mormon settlers.