Ken Burns, the master of documentaries, is all set to drop his newest film in October and you won't want to miss this one. The spotlight is on the majestic American Buffalo, and it's exclusively premiering on PBS.
Picture this: a film that's been brewing for a whopping four years, dedicated entirely to the life of the American Buffalo. These creatures have quite the tale to tell – they've faced challenges, ups, and downs, and have a deep-rooted connection with Indigenous communities that goes back over 10,000 years. Yup, that's right, this film's taking us on a journey through time, and we're here for it.
Buckle up, because you're about to witness the trials and tribulations that the American Buffalo has faced. This story isn't just about wildlife; it's a wake-up call about what happens when we humans neglect our environment and the incredible creatures that call it home.
It's a story of hope, too – a reminder that we can still come together to make things right.
Back in the day, the American Buffalo was a lifeline for our Native nations. These magnificent animals provided food and shelter, and their existence was intertwined with Indigenous cultures. But then came the Europeans and Americans, and things took a drastic turn. The once-thriving relationship was disrupted, and by the late 19th century, these buffaloes were on the brink of extinction. It's a rollercoaster of emotions, and this film captures it all.
And guess what? There's a twist in this tale. A group of remarkable folks stepped in to save the day.
We're talking about Native American families, legendary cattleman Charles Goodnight and his wife Molly, and even a railroad tycoon named Austin Corbin. Oh, and let's not forget the nature writer Ernest Harold Baynes, who trained bison to pull wagons – talk about thinking outside the box!
There's also a cast of influential characters like William T. Hornaday, “Buffalo Bill” Cody, and Theodore Roosevelt, who helped establish the first bison reserves in the West. The film even gives us a glimpse of Quanah Parker, a Comanche leader who transformed from a warrior to a champion of peace, celebrating the return of the buffalo to his homeland.
But that's not all – the film zooms in on the ongoing efforts of Tribal Nations to restore these near-extinct animals. It's a heartwarming journey of resilience, and it's happening right now.
And here's the cherry on top: alongside the film, there's an educational component. So, all you middle and high school students out there, get ready to dive into a world of learning!
Mark your calendars for October, because the epic adventure of the American Buffalo is about to unfold. Ken Burns' film is your ticket to exploring history, survival, and restoration like never before. Get ready to be amazed!”
Feature Photo by Goutham Ganesh Sivanandam
Last Updated on February 17, 2024 by Paul G
