Killers of the Flower Moon: A Deep Dive
Setting and Historical Context
David Grann's "Killers of the Flower Moon" is set in 1920s Oklahoma, specifically focusing on the Osage Nation. This period, known as the "Reign of Terror," was marked by a series of mysterious murders of wealthy Osage Native Americans.
Note
The Osage people had become incredibly wealthy due to oil discoveries on their land. This wealth, however, made them targets for exploitation and violence.
"In May, when the wild flowers began to bloom, the Osage Indians called it the time of the flower-killing moon."
This opening line sets the tone for the book, hinting at the dark events that would unfold during what should have been a time of renewal and beauty.
Key Characters
Mollie Burkhart
Mollie is an Osage woman at the center of the story. She watches as her family members are systematically murdered, becoming a symbol of the Osage people's suffering.
"Mollie was a particular prize because she had headrights to several tracts of land rich with oil."
This quote underscores how Mollie's wealth made her a target, illustrating the greed-driven motives behind the murders.
William Hale
Known as the "King of the Osage Hills," Hale is the primary antagonist. A white man who presents himself as a friend to the Osage, he orchestrates many of the murders.
Common Mistake
It's easy to view Hale as a lone villain, but he represents a broader system of exploitation and racism that allowed these crimes to occur.
Tom White
An FBI agent tasked with investigating the murders, White becomes the reader's guide through the complex web of crime and corruption.
Themes
Greed and Exploitation
The book vividly illustrates how the Osage's newfound wealth made them targets for exploitation by white settlers and officials.
"The world's richest people per capita were becoming the world's most murdered."
This stark contrast highlights the deadly consequences of greed and racism.
Systemic Racism and Injustice
Grann exposes how deeply ingrained racism allowed these crimes to go uninvestigated for so long.
