Ep 1. The People

Ken Burns' The West is a documentary series that explores the history of the American West from the perspective of those who lived through it. Season 1 episode 1, titled "The People", takes us on a journey through the lives of the Native American tribes who inhabited the West long before the arrival of European settlers. We are introduced to a diverse group of people, each with their own unique traditions and culture.

The episode begins with an overview of the vast landscape of the West and the different tribes that called it their home. We learn about the Pawnee, Crow, Sioux, and Apache tribes, among others, and how they hunted, gathered, and worshipped.

The episode then delves deeper into the lives of the Native American people. We learn about their close relationship with nature and how they depended on it for survival. We also learn about their spiritual beliefs, which were closely tied to the land and the animals that lived on it.

One of the key themes of the episode is the impact of European contact on the Native American people. We see how the arrival of Spanish explorers in the 16th century led to violent conflict with the tribes they encountered. Later, as more Europeans arrived, the Native American people were forced to adapt to a new way of life. This included the introduction of horses, which greatly affected their hunting and fighting tactics.

Despite this, the episode shows us that Native American traditions continued to thrive, even in the face of adversity. We see how different tribes had their own unique ways of life, but all shared a deep connection to the land and a respect for their ancestors.

The episode also explores the complex relationship between the Native American people and the United States government. We learn about the treaties that were signed between the two parties, which often led to broken promises and land confiscation. We also see the devastating impact of diseases such as smallpox, which were brought over by European settlers and had a catastrophic effect on the Native American population.

Overall, "The People" is a fascinating look at the Native American tribes of the American West and their rich culture and history. The episode highlights the complex relationship between the tribes and the European settlers, and the impact this had on both parties. We are left with a deep appreciation for the strength and resilience of the Native American people, and the importance of preserving their culture and traditions.