Contrary warriors, a story of the Crow tribe

Duration: 60

Year Published: 1985

Creator: Direct Cinema Ltd.

Format: 16mm

Color: Color

Sound: sound

Description: In Crow culture, a valiant warrior won the esteemed title contrary warrior by riding into battle backwards. The efforts of Montana's Crow tribe to maintain autonomy is personified by the life of the group's 97-year-old leader, Robert Yellowtail, a tireless contrary warrior. Belonging to the first generation of children born on the reservation, Yellowtail became a lawyer to advance the cause of his people, victims of broken treaties, poverty and discrimination. As Superintendent of the Bureau of Indian Affairs at Crow Agency, Yellowtail revived religious and social customs, launched educational programs and returned herds of the beloved buffalo to Crow territory. Today, with help from his wife Dorothy, Robert Yellowtail continues to lobby for self-rule but also takes time to enjoy local basketball games and attend traditional Handgames competitions. Members of the Crow nation, including a rancher, a teacher and Yellowtail relatives, discuss present tribal needs. Footage of ceremonies, including the sweat lodge and the intimate name-giving ceremony held for Yellowtail's great-grandson, attest to the enduring spiritual strength of the Crow people.