Historical Context of "Killers of the Flower Moon"
The Osage Nation and Oil Discovery
The historical context of "Killers of the Flower Moon" centers around one of the most significant yet overlooked periods in American history - the Osage murders of the 1920s. Let's break down the crucial historical elements that shaped this narrative.
NoteThe Osage people were forced to relocate multiple times before settling in what is now Oklahoma, an area initially considered worthless by white settlers.
The Oil Boom
In the early 1900s, massive oil deposits were discovered beneath Osage land. This discovery transformed the tribe overnight:
- By 1923, the Osage had received more than $30 million in royalties (equivalent to hundreds of millions today)
- Each tribal member received a headright - a share in the mineral rights
- The Osage became known as "the richest people per capita in the world"
Understanding the oil boom is crucial because it establishes the motive for the subsequent crimes and illustrates the dramatic economic transformation of the Osage people.
The Guardian System
One of the most insidious aspects of this historical period was the guardian system:
- The U.S. government declared many Osage "incompetent" to handle their own financial affairs
- White guardians were appointed to "manage" Osage wealth
- This system created opportunities for widespread exploitation
Don't underestimate the significance of the guardian system - it wasn't just about financial control, but represented systematic racism and oppression.
The Reign of Terror
The historical period known as the "Reign of Terror" (1921-1926) was characterized by:
- Mysterious deaths of wealthy Osage tribal members
