Ep 3. Indians, Outlaws, and Angie Debo

In American Experience season 1 episode 3, viewers are taken on a journey through the American West during the late 1800s and early 1900s. The episode highlights the experiences of Native Americans, outlaws, and a remarkable woman named Angie Debo, who devoted her life to uncovering the truth about the often-violent clashes between these groups.

The episode begins with a look at the plight of Native Americans during this time period. With the westward expansion of white settlers, Native lands were taken over, and their way of life was threatened. The episode shows how many Native Americans resisted this encroachment, leading to armed conflicts with the US military. Viewers learn about key events such as the Battle of Little Bighorn and the Wounded Knee Massacre, which left hundreds of Native Americans dead.

The episode then shifts its focus to the outlaws of the Old West. Viewers meet legendary figures such as Jesse James and Billy the Kid, learning about the crimes they committed and the ways they were romanticized in popular culture. However, the episode does not shy away from the brutal violence that these men perpetrated, and viewers are shown how the law eventually caught up with them.

Finally, the episode explores the life and legacy of Angie Debo. Born in Oklahoma in 1890, Debo was a historian and writer who was deeply interested in understanding the experiences of Native Americans. She spent decades researching the history of Oklahoma, uncovering the stories of Native tribes who had been erased from the official record. Her groundbreaking work challenged widely-held beliefs about the relationship between settlers and Native Americans, and played a key role in advancing the cause of civil rights for indigenous peoples.

Throughout the episode, viewers are presented with a wide range of historical images, from photographs of Native Americans and outlaws to archival footage of the landscapes that shaped these stories. Experts in the fields of history and anthropology provide commentary on the events and trends that shaped this era, offering insights into the complex relationships between different groups of people.

Overall, Indians, Outlaws, and Angie Debo is a fascinating exploration of the American West that sheds light on some of the most important stories of this time period. Viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the often-violent clashes between settlers and Native Americans, as well as the legend and reality of the outlaws who dominated popular culture. And, they will be inspired by the story of Angie Debo, a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to understanding the truth about the past.