Native American Representation in the Media By Angelica

Native American Representation in the Media By: Angelica Campos

Films Many films portrayed Native Americans to be savages and bloodthirsty warriors. Some portrayed them to be “medicine mans. ” In movies with European settlers, Native Indians were seen as villains.

The Doors (1991) ● In the film about a rock group, a medicine man appears at key moments in Jim Morrison’s life to shape the singer’s consciousness ● Morrison’s thinking influenced by Hollywood depictions of American Indians ● American Indians portrayed as medicine man who rescue white people from harm

The Last of the Mohicans (1992) ● Portrayed Native Americans as savages thirsty for the white man’s blood ● Magua represented the savage Indians who are naturally uncivilized ● Chingachgook and his son are the romanticized Indians who are respectful hunters who are deeply attached to nature

Pocahontas (1995) ● The real Pocahontas was married to a white man older than her and was a “noble savage” until she grew ill and passed away ● Made a horrible story into a children’s movie ● Became an example of romanticization of Native people in film

Society expects Indians to look a certain way based on what they see in the media. They think you must wear feathers and beads. They expect you to be dark and look like the people in the movies.