The novel is set against the backdrop of the French and Indian War in the 1750s during the colonization of North America. It follows the adventures of the main character Natty Bumppo (also known as Hawkeye or Leatherstocking) a white scout and frontiersman who has been adopted and raised by the Mohican tribe. Natty Bumppo forms a close bond with his Mohican brothers Chingachgook and Uncas the last of their tribe. Together they navigate the treacherous frontier and become embroiled in the conflic