“Dangerous Indians”

Abstract

This study examined 20 trade books (1964-1997) to evaluate their accuracy in depicting Native American peoples and cultures. The criteria embodied an authenticity guideline based on the Five Great Values with a rating scale between 1 (lowest) and 5 (highest). The values include generosity and sharing, respect for elders and women, getting along with nature, individual freedom and leadership, and courage. The results indicate that 60% of the books are at least satisfactory in their depictions but that bias and stereotyping still persist enough to recommend the use of the guideline as a tool to allow educators to confidently identify these problems in their instructional materials.