Twenty years ago, an exciting announcement resonated through the film and Native American communities: Chris Eyre, a celebrated director known for his groundbreaking work, would helm a monumental project titled "Indian Country: Native Americans in the 20th Century." This ambitious four-part series, destined for PBS television stations nationwide, promised to be a comprehensive and compelling exploration of the Native American experience throughout a tumultuous century.
The project, envisioned as a follow-up to the acclaimed 1995 miniseries "500 Nations," aimed to chronicle the history of Native American nations from the grim aftermath of the Wounded Knee Massacre in 1890 to the complexities of contemporary Native American life. This period, often perceived as one of decline and cultural erosion, would be re-examined through a lens of resilience, adaptation, and enduring sovereignty.
At the heart of this endeavor was Chris Eyre, a director whose own heritage deeply informed his artistic vision. As an enrolled member of the Southern Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma, Eyre brought a unique perspective and sensitivity to the stories he told. His connection to Native American culture and his commitment to authentic representation made him an ideal choice to lead the "Indian Country" project.
Eyre’s rise to prominence in the film industry was nothing short of remarkable. His 1998 film, "Smoke Signals," achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first feature film directed by a Native American to receive a national theatrical release. The film’s success extended beyond its cultural significance, garnering critical acclaim and winning both the Audience Award and the Filmmaker’s Trophy at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival. "Smoke Signals" resonated with audiences for its humor, heart, and authentic portrayal of contemporary Native American life, shattering stereotypes and paving the way for greater Native American representation in cinema.
Following the success of "Smoke Signals," Eyre continued to create impactful and thought-provoking films. His 2002 film, "Skins," tackled the complex issues of alcoholism and identity within the Native American community, featuring powerful performances from Graham Greene and Eric Schweig. He also directed a series of successful television movies, including "Skinwalkers" (2002), "Edge of America" (2003), and "A Thief of Time" (2004), each exploring different facets of the Native American experience. In 2005, Eyre directed "A Thousand Roads," a captivating widescreen film commissioned for the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of the American Indian. This project further solidified his reputation as a leading voice in Native American cinema, dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of his people.
The "Indian Country" series, in its initial stages of research and development, was a Katahdin Foundation production. The foundation planned to employ a multifaceted approach to ensure the series’ accuracy and depth. Extensive use of oral histories was central to the project, providing firsthand accounts of the experiences and perspectives of Native American individuals and communities. These personal narratives would serve as a powerful counterpoint to traditional historical narratives, offering a more nuanced and authentic understanding of the 20th century.
Furthermore, the project involved rigorous research within archives and historical documents, meticulously examining records and materials related to Native American history. The Katahdin Foundation also prioritized outreach to Native American scholars and community leaders, seeking their guidance and input throughout the production process. This collaborative approach aimed to ensure that the series accurately reflected the diverse experiences and perspectives of Native American nations across the country.
"Indian Country: Native Americans in the 20th Century" aimed to challenge prevailing narratives about Native American history. While the common perception often depicted Native American cultures as being decimated by the Indian Wars, culminating in the tragic events at Wounded Knee, the series sought to unveil a different story. It promised to illuminate the remarkable resilience and adaptability of Native American nations in the face of immense adversity.
The series would showcase how Native American populations had experienced significant growth since the late 19th century, defying predictions of their demise. It would highlight the ongoing efforts to revive cultural traditions, preserve endangered languages, and foster economic development within Native American communities. The series would also examine instances where Native American nations successfully asserted their treaty rights and held the U.S. government accountable for its obligations.
"Indian Country" was conceived as a tribute to the strength, perseverance, and enduring spirit of Native American nations. The project was designed for national broadcast on public television, ensuring wide accessibility and fostering greater understanding of Native American history and culture. Plans also included the creation of DVD and video distribution, further expanding the series’ reach.
Beyond the television series itself, the Katahdin Foundation envisioned a comprehensive educational initiative. A companion book, featuring expanded narratives and historical context, was planned to complement the visual storytelling. A soundtrack CD, showcasing Native American music and artistry, would add another layer of cultural richness to the project. Extensive educational materials and teaching guides were also in development to support and accompany non-theatrical distribution, ensuring that the series could be effectively utilized in classrooms and community settings. The Indian Country project was a comprehensive effort to educate and inform.
This multifaceted approach reflected a commitment to creating a lasting impact, fostering a deeper appreciation for Native American history and culture among a broad audience. The Indian Country series held the promise of transforming perceptions and promoting a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the Native American experience in the 20th century.
The source of this announcement was a press release from the Katahdin Foundation, disseminated through Jane Ayer Public Relations. The foundation’s website provided further details about the project and its mission. The announcement generated considerable excitement within the Native American community and among those interested in Native American history and culture. The Indian Country series was anticipated to be a landmark achievement in documentary filmmaking.
While specific details about the series’ production and eventual release are not readily available based solely on this announcement, the initial vision and ambition of the project are clear. Chris Eyre’s involvement, coupled with the Katahdin Foundation’s commitment to thorough research and community engagement, suggested that "Indian Country: Native Americans in the 20th Century" had the potential to be a truly significant and impactful contribution to the historical record.
The article is based on information available 20 years ago. It’s not clear what happened with Indian Country project.