#shoshone has like. 3?

[quaranmine]

at a rare point in firewatch au where i'm gonna have to admit i know nothing about how this thing in particular works and bs the whole thing

[botmilf]

Botmom's name is Wyatt Morgan

A Lil Bit About Botmom:

Wyatt Morgan--or "Botmom"-- was born and raised in Jasper, Nevada. She has Indigenous heritage (specifically Western Shoshone), is 34 years old and works as a bartender at a local strip club. She also lifts hella weights.

She is pansexual and uses she/her pronouns.

She has a SLIGHT texture to her voice, like think Ella Purnell degree of raspiness.

Wyatt Morgan and The Bots: The Story So Far...

A year after losing her twin sister to a rare form of cancer, Wyatt moved out to an abandoned missile silo on the outskirts of Jasper. Her sister had mentioned it a few times before and fantasized about what it'd be like to fix it up and live there--she always had a thing for unique homes.

So, that was Wyatt's reasoning. She would fix this run-down, graffiti covered dump and sink every penny she had into making it beautiful if it was the last damn thing she did.

Her first contact with the Autobots occurred pretty much exactly as you would imagine: they crash land out in the desert near enough to her location for her fuckery senses to go off. Wyatt finds them after driving out to the crash site, offers them shelter in her silo and the rest is history.

Eventually they became like family to her. Despite their dire situation with the Decepticons, Ms. Morgan has discovered a new kind of joy among Team Prime—and you can tell just by how she talks to them, with how naturally she refers to everyone as “babe/baby/hun/sweetie/love”.

In the 3 years building up to the events of Transformers Prime, Wyatt--with the help of the bots--doesn't just fix up the old missile silo, she turns it into something the Autobots haven't had in a long time: a home.

STAY TUNED FOR MORE: I'm currently working on a detailed sheet that contains her relationships with the bots, the kids and the Decepticons.

[neechees]

Why did the Cree has so much beef with other people

Depends on the time period dvehdtv.

Tribes we were allied with: Ojibwe & Salteaux (the besties <3), Blackfoot (its complicated), Algonquin, Assiniboin, Flathead Salish (we often got our horses from them), Haudenosaunee confederacy, Arapaho, Maliseet, Mandan, Abenaki

Tribes we were enemies with: Blackfoot confederacy, Inuit, Oceti Sakowin (namely the Dakota), Dene, Danezaa, Gros Ventres, Kootenay, & Shoshone, Mi'kmaq, Haudenosaunee confederacy (it's also complicated)

Like other peoples and wars in history, the allyship depended on the time period and circumstances. Some of the reasons why we might've been enemies was for scarcity of food, territory (but it's not in the same way Europeans would fight over land exactly, because our worldviews about land are different), interpersonal slights or interactions, access to horses, allying ourselves with certain tribes (like "an enemy of my friend is also my enemy" kind of thing, so we became enemies by association), and so on. At one point in history we might've been allies with a tribe & then later enemies with them. It really depends.

When the British met with Crees in the late 17th century, we were actually allies with the Blackfoot at the time, & we were warring together against the Shoshone. Later we were kind of off-and-on with the Blackfoot, but one of the reasons we were enemies later (especially in the 1800s), was because of the growing scareceness of food and encroaching on enemy territory to try get it. Blackfoot-Cree relations largely improved when Blackfoot Chief Crowfoot adopted Poundmaker (Cree) as his son, & he's the only reason Poundmaker's hair wasn't forcefully cut while he was in prison. Poundmaker also met with Sitting Bull at some point, and because Sitting Bull later became friends with Crowfoot, Lakota-Cree relations would've likely improved as well.

Some bands or subsections of Crees might not have been involved in certain conflicts as others due to culture and location or situation. Like, the Woodland Crees weren't so involved with the (Plains) Cree/Blackfoot wars or conflicts, even though they were allied with the Plains Crees & were our woodland cousins, because they weren't as nomadic. The conflicts with Inuit also pertained mostly to more Northern & Eastern suitated Crees, & the Innu. Innu being enemies with the Haudenosaunee at one point is I believe when the Plains Crees were actually allies with them (we liked getting wild rice & corn from them via the Ojibwe). & even when we were enemies, it was still pretty common to stop fighting and to invite even enemy tribes over so they could join in on ceremonies & religious events (& this wasn't exclusive to Crees, the Lakota also did this with the Pawnee)

There's also tribes that we sometimes ran into but didn't have necessarily bad or good relationships with, & we were just kind of neutral with each other, maybe sometimes traded. One example would be the Kiowa, who we ran into on occasion, but didn't interact with too much.

It's hard to summarize all here but yeah... it depends on the time period, place, tribe, band/subsections, and so on.

[westadventure24]

Day 7 - Oh Brother!

We were thrilled to have our own personal tour guide drive over 2 1/2 hours from Belgrade, MT, to spend the day (and night!) educating us about all of the best places the top loop of Yellowstone has to offer.

For those of you who don’t know, Todd’s brother, Ryan, spent many years working at Yellowstone and living in Montana.

So, we started our day visiting Tower Falls…aptly named for a cascading waterfall running between two enormous rock towers. Every time you think you have seen it all, the next thing you see is just as unexpected!

Ryan and Todd both are also very good at spotting wildlife, even in the most camouflaged situations. As we piled back in the RV after Tower Falls, Ryan quickly pointed out these two female big horned sheep and their young. A species we had been hoping to see! We looked for big daddy, but no luck. He was likely watching over his family from high above the rocks, where our viewpoint was blocked.

Next stop was the Petrified Tree. Now, I may have this wrong because I am certainly no paleobotanist, but it is my understanding that a tree can become petrified, or stone like, when it is covered in volcanic ash, remains undisturbed, and the wood is replaced by minerals over millions of years. In this particular spot, there used to be 3 trees. Sadly, only one remains in this particular area that is an easy, short walk for park visitors.

Mom’s favorite place of the day was Mammoth Hot Springs. This quaint little town is the home of the park offices, a lodge, post office, restaurant, and much more. Herds of Elk like to call this home and spend much time grazing on the well manicured green spaces in the town. Evidently, they heard we were coming and chose to remain in the nearby mountains. I can attest to the fact they spend time there by the amount of droppings left behind!

The visitors center there was quite educational and well organized. There were displays about the history of the creation of Yellowstone as a national park, the mistakes that nearly destroyed the bison herds, a full wildlife taxidermy display of the those animals calling the park home, and, of course, a gift shop. Here we learned there were no geysers, but rather underground hot springs that do not erupt. This made Dad much more comfortable about seeing the Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces.

Before seeing the terraces in person though, we stopped for a bite of lunch in the restaurant. This just happened to be the exact same restaurant of Ryan’s first experience as a chef. He was not surprised to discover the menu had changed, but the building had not. He told us of how he and his colleagues would spend time off, and showed us the dormitory where he lived. Interestingly, our waitress said the staff still spends their free time in many of the same places as Ryan did in the early 90’s.

After a selfie of the whole crew, our tour took us to Sheepeater Cliffs. This area was named after the Shoshone Indians who lived in the area and made full use of big horn sheep. Let’s just say it is a good thing the sheep we saw earlier chose to live elsewhere. Yikes!🐏

The crew was getting tired so we headed back toward camp by way of the Virginia cascades. Gorgeous!

Once we had camp all set up, Mom and Dad opted to spend a little quiet time doing crosswords together while Todd, Ryan and I made one more trip to the nearby Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. My husband is a truly special and thoughtful human being. You see, when looking through family photos recently, he loved this picture of Mom and Dad Hohenstein when they were roughly our age and on one of their visits to see Ryan. What I didn’t realize was that Todd wanted us to have a forever memory and in that same location, and we had missed seeing the Upper Falls the day before. At this point I don’t think either of us quite have a grasp on which falls were the Upper or Lower and I am not sure we got the exact spot, but no doubt we’re in the right vicinity. 🥰

We spent the rest of the evening sitting around the campfire before and after the rain. Ryan, being the true outdoorsman that he is, chose to stay in his tent the entire night through the rumbling thunder and pouring rain and yet still woke up happy and smiling. We are so thankful for the time we spent together, the stories he shared, and the kindness in his heart. It was awesome to see him in the place he loves so much! What an unforgettable day!!!

[fordtato]

bit basic but ford for the ask game? (also random side comment: I would perish for Jersey Boy but am also awful at leaving comments so I figured I might as well; yeah no that fic gives me so much life. Thank you so much for writing it)

Oh my god where do I start with this guy

favorite thing about them least favorite thing about them favorite line brOTP OTP nOTP random headcanon unpopular opinion song i associate with them favorite picture of them

favorite thing: I think I love his ambition, and how much he strives to be *somebody* after what is clearly a lifetime of not knowing who really has his back, who might hurt him, and of feeling different, for one reason or another. I like the complexity of all that, and I like how it manifests in his character

least favorite thing: i WANT to say it's how he treats Stanley, but I think my least favorite thing is in Journal 3, how he seems a little dismissive of Fiddleford's anxiety, calling it a "childish fear" - I wonder if this is Ford feeling "I got through my own anxiety, why can't he?"

favorite line:

(image description in alt text)

brOTP: Ford and Stan, all the way, making mischief and being a scourge on society

OTP: Ford and Fiddleford, all the way, making mischief and being a scourge on society, but also gay (and also tragic)

random headcanon: Ford says in the journal that Mabel has the "Pines Family Sweet Tooth" so I think he drinks his coffee with a LOT of sugar, but in college he would try to drink it black to look more mature.

unpopular opinion: I think Ford was good at boxing, even if it wasn't his favorite thing. a lot of people like to say Ford was bad at it, but we see a photo of him and stan boxing as teenagers and seemingly having a good time (in stan's car while he's homeless). I don't know, I think sometimes the fandom makes Ford out to be more of a useless nerd than he is. I also think he might be a decent baker, just because of how much chemistry is involved (though making him useless at cooking does make for some good stories).

song I associate with him: Old Shoshone by Chris Remo, Hold on to your Heart by Man Man, and Brain Stew by Green Day

favorite picture:

OR

(also thank you for saying that about my fic <3)

[vancouverislandtotoronto2023]

Day 3 Mon. May 29 Baker City, Oregon to Twin Falls and Idaho Falls, Idaho 700 km

What's become clear is that in order to hit my destinations, I am not going to be able to entirely avoid the Interstates. Case in point, in order to make my 700 km today, I had to take Interstate 84 to Twin Falls. At 80 kph, you don't get much local flavour, and you're certainly not stopping to take pictures. However, you can gather impressions. When I think of Idaho, now I will think of wind turbines, solar farms, transmission lines, irrigation and cattle, cattle, and cattle. I'll also think of the Oregon Trail, which stretches from Missouri to Oregon and 500 miles through Idaho. And always in the distance, scenic mountain ranges, some snow capped, and all sporting fluffy white cloud banks overhead. Without irrigation, it can get pretty brown, but with it, Idaho grows impressive amounts of potatoes, wheat, barley, hay, sugar beets, peas and lentils.

Of the two cities I visited, Twin Falls has a pop of 53,000, Elev. 3,734 ft and is known as the gateway to the Snake River. At its east end, there's Shoshone Falls and at its north Penine Coulee Falls.

Idaho Falls is a city of 66,000, Elev 4,705 ft, and is the commercial, cultural, and healthcare center for eastern Idaho, western Wyoming, and Southern Montana.

I took the scenic route between the two along US 26 and US 20, which took me past the Craters of the Moon, a 600 sq mile lava field that is still regarded as active and likely to erupt again.

I also passed through Arco, apparently the first town in the world to be lighted by atomic power (1955) by the nearby atomic reactors of the 900 square mile Idaho National Laboratory nuclear testing and storage facility. It also sits beneath a mountain covered in the numbers of its graduating classes.

[fatherhoodstory]

last summer

It’s well past midnight but the moon is almost full and there are long shadows behind things. The storms came heavy from the south as the sun went down and the pavement still shines in the dead glow of streetlights and moonlight, the air cleansed and cool for late August. East and south to the sea a heat wave bakes the landscape, killing livestock as they follow the patches of shifting shade. The ice is melting, the seas warm, entire forests take to flame like matchsticks and fill this valley, and our lungs, with the ashy remnants of the dead.

I stand among the sunflowers we planted in the spring, hundreds of them bathed in moonlight, heads slightly bowed, as if sleeping, waiting for the world to turn back towards the light. The soil beneath me is dark and rich, the smell taking me to quieter places. There is a frat party at the end of the block, drunken children walk by yelling and laughing, their conversations dark and stupid. Most stare down, necks and shoulders slumped into the dull glow of a phone, oblivious to the sunflowers, me, or the stars above them. A few of them look in my direction as I stand swaying gently with the sunflowers, the leaves and heads as big as basketballs. They say nothing and hurry along, not sure of what they saw but not looking again. I stand out here because you are sleeping and the noise of this place woke me. There are cars too, speeding up and down the street, screeching their tires amid the screams from the open windows. It sounds like the end of the world or the madness and chaos that might take place then and I could not sleep and now stand vigil in the night. I did this when you were younger, just a baby, but there were only coyotes then, yipping wildly at the moon, or bears, wolves, or a lone lion passing through in the shadows, and always the silhouette of mountains against the brightly speckled dark. The fire is here too, the coals grey and cold in the night. I can see the stain of Bison blood where I let it run out onto the cracked concrete as I peeled the skin back to reveal the skull. It found its way back to the soil here, an offering, to the memory of the place where we make our stand. This is the Valley of the Flower, and before John Bozeman or Nathaniel P. Langford ever thought about exploiting it, the People lived and hunted here; the Blackfeet, the Nez Perce, Lakota, Crow, and the Shoshone. I stand there with the Bison blood and flowers, looking out at the rivers below and the peaks beyond, what they call Yellowstone now, the Tobacco Roots, the Bridgers. There is no concrete, no cars, no drunk kids or people at all. It is quiet save the wind and distant thunder from the storm that has already moved on into another world. You sleep still and I can see your face, same as it ever was, and I hope that you can see this place in your dreams, the way it was and might be again someday, when the Buffalo return. In the morning it will be slightly colder, another winter waiting patiently for its time just over those mountains to the north. Time and memory fade now, deeper into the dark. Like space above, endless, unfathomably cold and black. Is there judgement after all this, redemption, or do we simple play out our lives below the void of this silent expanse? After a while I can rest and lay down again. It is almost 3 and I have been standing out here for hours. The drunks and cars and intensity of things grows as quiet as it ever does here. The train blows it's horn again and again for they never stop, the coal they dig and carry must feed the fires that burn the world.

In the morning I will be tired and you will be rested. You will never know that I stood watch long after you were asleep, after I fell asleep beside you and wake and stand in the night. As long as I am able I will stand vigil and protect you, even if it is only from the dark and cold that surrounds us.

[epacer]

Education

The Learning Curve

For Native Communities, SDUSD Flag Raising Part of a Bigger Picture

On Friday (November 3), San Diego Unified raised a Kumeyaay-Diegueño Nation flag emblazoned with the 12 bands of the Kumeyaay tribe above the district’s University Heights headquarters. It was the first time the district had flown the flag and was meant to coincide with Native American Heritage Month.

The significance wasn’t lost on the Native community, who showed up en masse. Accompanied by gourd rattles, Kumeyaay bird singers sang traditional songs and children performed a variety of pow wow style dances.

The flag the district raised was donated by Bobby Wallace, a longtime activist and member of the Barona Band of Mission Indians, and its ascent up the pole was actually one of the shorter journeys it’s embarked on. 

Wallace has traveled with the flag from Maine to San Diego on a prayer run to preserve water. It’s gone with him to the border with Mexico to protest construction of a segment of border wall that endangered ancestral Kumeyaay land. It’s been to the Salton Sea and to GONA’s, or Gatherings of Native Americans, and to the Lummi Nation’s Gathering of Eagles in the northwestern corner of Washington state.

For Wallace, the flag, which was given to him by his cousin Julie LaBrake of the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, has been something of a security blanket. “It’s sad to see it go, but I’m going to be happy when they raise it too – for everybody that’s been here before us and everybody that’s coming,” Wallace said. 

Raising the flag is an “honor for his ancestors,” he said, especially because of his own past experiences. When he grew up in Lakeside, he experienced prejudice. That’s just the way things were, he said. So, to see the flag fly over an educational institution situated on land his people used to walk on, and on a hill that overlooks their ancestral villages and the beaches where they used to collect shells and set off in their boats, represents a significant change.

‘We Have to Keep Fighting’

But despite his pride at the flag raising, Wallace and many of the other attendees, expect to see the district continue its efforts to further ingrain indigenous communities into its teachings. Like land acknowledgments, which have in recent years been called “moral exhibitionism” or “conscience-clearing rites,“ by some, clear action must follow even significant symbolic victories. San Diego Unified board member Cody Petterson acknowledged that tension during his own unusually blunt land acknowledgment before the flag’s raising.

Typically, Petterson said, “someone like me takes to the podium or the zoom screen and says, we acknowledge that we stand on unceded Kumeyaay territory. Let me start by being more explicit: my people took the land we are standing on from your people.” 

Every entity, Petterson continued, has the responsibility to not just acknowledge these realities, but to do what is in their power to fix the harm done. “We are committed to doing what is in our power to convert our acknowledgement into action. With regard to our native children and youth, we will continue to reverse the historical inequities that have characterized our education system,” Petterson said.

The district has already made some changes. While California just last year made ethnic studies a graduation requirement for high schoolers, San Diego Unified has been teaching ethnic studies courses for a decade and a half that include content about the region’s native peoples. Petterson himself described watching his son build a traditional Kumeyaay home for a school project rather than the mission he built when he attended district schools. 

Connie GreyBull, who is Hunkpapa Lakota from Standing Rock, North Dakota and Shoshone-Bannock from Fort Hall, Idaho is the program director of San Diego Unified’s Indian Education Program. She said the flag raising was a victory, and one that took years of concerted effort by herself, members of the Parent Advisory Committee and others. But even though the district’s made progress over the years toward embracing its indigenous students, particularly in integrating native voices into curriculum, she echoed the sentiment that more work was needed.

“We have very unique educational and cultural needs for our students. They live in two worlds, so we have to do both cultural and academic work with them because we want them to succeed,” Greybull said. “So, there’s a lot of work to do … We have to continue fighting for our culture and to be recognized. We make up .3 percent of our school population, we’re the minority, and we keep just keep being pushed back to the side,” she said.

Wallace describes himself as just a nut or a bolt in the big picture, but he feels the flag raising and a recent board resolution recognizing November as Native American Heritage Month could help open the door for a more progressive and inclusive approach to the indigenous community. At the core of that new approach, he said, should be truth.

“Not harsh truths that kids can’t relate to but truths that will explain a little bit about history and what actually went on and how we lived and how we were out there in our boats when that guy (Juan Rodriguez) Cabrillo came cruising by,” Wallace said. 

“Could it start with just a little flag going up? Of course. Is California ready? Is San Diego ready? Yes, of course.” *Reposted article from the VOSD by Jakob  McWhinney  on November 8, 2023

[roamanddiscover]

Idaho

If you're seeking an adventure in the great outdoors, Idaho is the perfect destination. Nestled in the northwestern region of the United States, Idaho is a state filled with rugged mountains, pristine forests, crystal-clear lakes, and rushing rivers. It is a nature lover's paradise, with more than 30 state parks, 19 national forests and wildlife areas, and three national recreation areas. Whether you're looking for a rugged outdoor adventure, a peaceful retreat, or an escape into nature, Idaho has something to offer. The name Idaho is thought to originate from the Apache word "idahi," which means "enemy." However, this origin has been disputed and is still a subject of debate among historians and linguists. The true meaning behind the name remains a mystery. Idaho's history is rich and diverse, with evidence of early human settlements dating back to 14,500 years ago. The state was originally home to various Native American tribes, including the Nez Perce, Shoshone, and Bannock. In the 1800s, Idaho became part of the Oregon Territory before being established as a separate territory in 1863. It became the 43rd state to join the United States in 1890. Idaho is known for its unique geology, including volcanic rock formations, hot springs, and ancient lava flows. The state is home to the Sawtooth Range, one of the most rugged and scenic mountain ranges in the United States. Idaho is home to the largest wilderness area in the contiguous United States, the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness. Idaho's diverse geography includes forests, mountains, plains, lakes, and rivers. The state is home to the largest lake west of the Mississippi River, Lake Pend Oreille, which spans over 43 miles. Idaho is also home to the Snake River, which flows over 1,000 miles through the state and provides opportunities for rafting, kayaking, and fishing. Conservation efforts are essential to protecting Idaho's natural beauty and wildlife. The state has numerous conservation areas and parks, including the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, which is the deepest river gorge in North America. Idaho is also home to several endangered species, such as the gray wolf and the grizzly bear, which have been successfully reintroduced to the Yellowstone ecosystem. Idaho's climate varies depending on the region, with cold, snowy winters in the mountainous areas and hot, dry summers in the lower elevations. The state experiences an average of 18 inches of precipitation per year, with most of it falling as snow in the winter months. Like many states, Idaho faces environmental challenges, including air and water pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change. Efforts are being made to address these issues through sustainable development and conservation efforts. Politically, Idaho is known for its conservative views and Republican voting record. However, the state has seen an influx of young professionals and retirees in recent years, leading to a more diverse political landscape. Agriculture is a significant industry in Idaho, with potatoes being the state's most famous export. The state is also a leader in the production of trout, dairy products, and sugar beets. Idaho's economy has diversified in recent years, with technology and tourism becoming increasingly important industries. Infrastructure improvements are essential to Idaho's continued growth and success. The state has several major highways and airports, including the Boise Airport, which serves over 3 million passengers annually. The state is also investing in high-speed broadband infrastructure to support its growing technology industry. Idaho's scientific community has made significant contributions to fields such as nuclear science, agriculture, and engineering. Notable individuals who have called Idaho home include Ernest Hemingway, Sacagawea, and Olympic gold medalist Kristin Armstrong. Idaho's population is approximately 1.8 million, with the majority residing in the Boise metropolitan area. The state has a diverse ethnic makeup, with significant populations of Hispanic, Native American, and Asian communities. Religion plays a prominent role in Idaho's culture, with Christianity being the predominant faith. Visitors to Idaho can enjoy a range of cultural traditions and activities, from rodeos and festivals to museums and art galleries. Outdoor activities abound, with opportunities for hiking, skiing, fishing, and hunting. The cities and towns in Idaho each have their unique charm, from the vibrant urban landscape of Boise to the quaint mountain towns of McCall and Ketchum. Some of the most beautiful cities in Idaho include Sun Valley, Coeur d'Alene, and Sandpoint, each offering stunning natural scenery and plenty of outdoor activities for visitors. Must-visit destinations in Idaho include Yellowstone National Park, Craters of the Moon National Monument, and Shoshone Falls. Idaho's cuisine is a reflection of its agricultural roots, with fresh ingredients and farm-to-table cuisine being a significant part of the state's culinary scene. Idaho is also home to several craft breweries and wineries, making it a destination for beer and wine enthusiasts. Traveling to Idaho is easy, with several major airlines offering direct flights to the state's airports. Accommodations range from luxury resorts to rustic cabins, providing visitors with plenty of options for their stay. The global community views Idaho as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its stunning natural scenery and abundant recreational opportunities. Tourism is a significant industry in the state, with over 20 million visitors each year. Idaho is a state filled with natural beauty, cultural richness, and endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Idaho has something to offer every traveler.

Etymology

Idaho's name has been a topic of debate for many years. Some claim that the word "Idaho" was coined by a Native American language and means "gem of the mountains" or "sunrise" due to its breathtaking landscapes. However, this is just a myth. In reality, the name "Idaho" was created by George M. Willing, a mining lobbyist who combined the words "Ida" and "ho," which were used in other localities. "Ida" meant "shining one" in Greek mythology, while "ho" was a word used by Native Americans to refer to a prominent mountain or range of mountains. Interestingly, the name "Ida" was also used for a gold-mining region in the mountains of California. Willing might have been inspired by this and combined it with the local word "ho" to create the name "Idaho." While it might not have any Native American origins, the name "Idaho" has become synonymous with the state and represents its vast beauty and natural resources. Despite the controversy surrounding its origins, the name "Idaho" has become deeply rooted in the history and culture of the state. Idahoans take great pride in their state's name and the unique identity that it represents. From the towering mountains to the shimmering lakes, "Idaho" captures the essence of the state and all that it has to offer. the origin and meaning of the name "Idaho" might be up for debate, but its significance to the state and its people cannot be denied. It is a symbol of Idaho's natural beauty, mining history, and cultural identity, making it an integral part of the state's past, present, and future.

History

Idaho has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area that is now Idaho was first inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Shoshone, Nez Perce, and Coeur d'Alene. These tribes thrived on the abundant natural resources and engaged in trade with neighboring tribes. In the early 1800s, European explorers and trappers began venturing into the area, seeking new trade opportunities and resources. The Lewis and Clark expedition played a significant role in documenting the region's natural wonders and establishing a path for westward expansion. The mid-1800s brought the California Gold Rush, which led to a surge in settlement and development in Idaho. The territory was officially established in 1863, with Boise serving as the capital. Idaho's early economy was largely based on mining, logging, and farming. The discovery of gold and other minerals drew prospectors to the area, and the development of railroads allowed for easier transportation of goods. Agriculture also played a significant role, with crops such as wheat, potatoes, and sugar beets becoming major exports. Over time, Idaho's economy diversified, with industries such as technology, healthcare, and tourism becoming more prominent. Today, Idaho is known for its innovation and entrepreneurship, with numerous startups and tech companies calling the state home. Throughout its history, Idaho has been a hub for social and political activism. The state played a significant role in the women's suffrage movement, with women securing the right to vote in Idaho in 1896 - four years before it became a national law. Idaho was also at the forefront of the environmental movement, with conservation efforts such as the creation of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area helping to preserve the state's natural beauty. As Idaho continues to grow and evolve, it remains firmly committed to its heritage and values. Whether you're exploring the state's historic landmarks or embracing its cutting-edge technology, Idaho is a place that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

Geology

Idaho has an incredibly diverse geology that has shaped its stunning natural landscapes. The state is home to several mountain ranges, including the Rocky Mountains, the Bitterroot Range, and the Sawtooth Range. These ranges are composed of unique rock formations that date back hundreds of millions of years. One of the most notable geological features of Idaho is the Snake River Plain. This enormous depression that runs through the state was formed by volcanic activity over millions of years. Today, it is home to many important geological sites, including Craters of the Moon National Monument, which features lava flows, volcanic cones, and other unique formations. Other volcanic formations in Idaho include the Wapi Lava Field, which covers over 100 square miles, and the Hells Canyon, which was formed by a massive volcanic eruption. In addition to volcanic features, Idaho also houses many important sedimentary formations. The state has several major river systems, which have carved deep canyons and valleys in the surrounding rock. Some of the most notable river canyons in Idaho include the Snake River Canyon, Hells Canyon, and the Salmon River Canyon. These canyons are home to many rare and unique species of plants and animals, including several endangered species. Idaho is also known for its many scenic waterfalls. One of the most famous is Shoshone Falls, which is often called the "Niagara Falls of the West." Located on the Snake River, the falls are over 200 feet wide and 212 feet high. Other notable waterfalls in Idaho include Mesa Falls, which plunges over 100 feet, and Bridal Veil Falls, which drops 80 feet into a picturesque canyon. Idaho's geology is one of the state's most impressive features. From towering mountains to scenic canyons and awe-inspiring waterfalls, the state's geological formations offer a wealth of opportunities for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Geography

Idaho's geography is a delight for nature lovers. The state is located in the northwestern region of the United States and boasts of diverse landscapes. Idaho is home to rugged mountains, vast forests, arid deserts, breathtaking canyons, and glistening bodies of water. To the north, Idaho is bordered by Canada, while Montana shares its eastern border. The western border is shared with Washington and Oregon, while Nevada and Utah share the southern border. Idaho is the 14th largest state in the US with a total area of 83,569 square miles. The state is divided into seven distinct regions. The Northern region consists of rugged mountains and vast forests. The Central region has vast prairies, while the Western region is home to the Snake River Plain. The Eastern region is mountainous and has high deserts, while the Southern region also has high deserts and sprawling forests. The Panhandle region is a narrow strip of land that extends to the north of Idaho. Idaho's highest point is Borah Peak, a peak in the Lost River Range, standing at 12,662 feet. The lowest point is Lewiston, situated at an elevation of 750 feet. The state's major rivers are the Snake River, the Clearwater River, and the Salmon River. Idaho's diverse geography makes it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The state boasts of breathtaking national parks, such as Yellowstone, Craters of the Moon National Monument, and the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. The state also has numerous hot springs and natural pools. In Idaho, you can also find the Shoshone Falls, also known as the Niagara of the West. The falls stand at 212 feet and are 45 feet wide, making them one of the most stunning natural waterfalls in the country. Idaho's diverse landscape is a testament to the state's natural beauty and allure. From rugged mountains, vast forests, and glistening bodies of water, there is something for everyone in Idaho, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Ecology

Idaho is a state known for its breathtaking natural beauty, and conservation efforts are crucial in preserving this pristine environment. The state is home to vast forests, rivers, mountains, and wildlife, making ecology a central priority for Idaho's government and its citizens. Conservation efforts in Idaho include the protection of endangered species and their habitats. The state is home to several endangered species such as the grizzly bear, gray wolf, and salmon. Multiple programs are in place to ensure the endangered species' survival, including the protection of their natural habitats and breeding programs. Idaho has several organizations and volunteer groups dedicated to preserving the state's ecology. One such group is the Idaho Conservation League, which has been operating for over 40 years. The organization is responsible for increasing ecosystem protections, safeguarding clean water, and promoting renewable energy development in Idaho. In addition to this, the group provides educational programs to raise awareness of Idaho's precious ecosystems among its residents. The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) also plays a pivotal role in preserving Idaho's ecology. The DEQ monitors pollutants, water quality, and air quality in Idaho's environment, and works with businesses and industries throughout the state to minimize their environmental impact. This is essential to ensure that Idaho's natural treasures like rivers, lakes and forests are preserved for future generations to come. In addition to efforts to preserve endangered species, ecosystem protections and pollution control, Idaho has also taken strides to promote the use of renewable energy. The state is home to hydroelectric power plants, geothermal energy sources, and wind farms, proving that it's possible to harness and use renewable energy in an ecologically friendly manner. Idaho takes its ecology seriously and recognizes the importance of protecting the state's natural beauty. Through conservation efforts, monitoring, and a commitment to renewable energy, Idaho continues to ensure a healthy and vibrant ecosystem for future generations to enjoy.

Biodiversity

Idaho boasts an impressive array of plant and animal life, making it a destination for nature enthusiasts. The state is home to over 25,000 species of wildlife, including elk, deer, moose, mountain lions, and black bears. Idaho's rivers and lakes are a prime habitat for salmon and other fish species. In terms of flora, Idaho's vast forests are populated by a variety of conifers, including pine, spruce, and fir trees. The state is also home to several rare plant species, including the dwarf huckleberry and yellow lady's-slipper. Idaho's diverse ecosystems provide important habitats for endangered species, such as the Northern Idaho Ground Squirrel and the Woodland Caribou. Conservationists and government agencies have worked to protect these species and their habitats, including through the establishment of wildlife refuges. The state's biodiversity is not limited to just its land-based flora and fauna. Idaho's waters are home to a variety of aquatic species, including several species of salmon and trout. The state's rivers and lakes also support populations of waterfowl, such as ducks and geese. While Idaho's biodiversity is impressive, it is not without its challenges. The state has experienced habitat loss and fragmentation due to human development, mining, and logging activities. the global climate crisis poses a threat to the state's ecosystems, as rising temperatures and changing weather patterns can disrupt the delicate balance of the state's flora and fauna. Despite these challenges, conservation efforts and sustainable practices have been implemented to protect and preserve Idaho's biodiversity. Visitors to the state can witness its incredible array of wildlife and plant life, and contribute to conservation efforts through responsible and environmentally-friendly tourism practices.

Waterfowl

Climate

Idaho's climate is primarily continental, with distinct seasonal variations across the state. Summers are warm and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F in the southern and central regions. Winters, on the other hand, are cold and snowy, particularly in the mountainous areas of the state where temperatures can drop well below freezing. In terms of precipitation, Idaho receives an average of 16 inches of rain annually, with some areas receiving as little as 10 inches per year. Snowfall is much more significant, particularly in the northern and mountainous regions, where it can accumulate to several feet per year. One of the most notable features of Idaho's climate is its distinct microclimates. Due to the state's diverse landscape, the climate can vary significantly from one area to another. For example, the southern part of the state is known for its hot and dry summers, while the northern panhandle is characterized by significant snowfall and temperatures well below freezing. Idaho's climate also has a significant impact on the state's economy. Agriculture is a critical part of Idaho's economy, and the state's climate is particularly well-suited to the cultivation of crops such as potatoes, wheat, and barley. The state's winter climate also makes it an attractive destination for winter sports enthusiasts, with several world-class ski resorts located in the mountainous regions of the state. Idaho's climate is characterized by distinct seasonal variations and microclimates, making it an ideal destination for visitors looking to experience a range of different weather conditions. Read the full article

[hikeforfunandfitness]

Death Valley National Park in California

Death Valley National Park in California

Introduction

Located in California, Death Valley National Park is a must-see for any nature enthusiast or outdoor adventurer. With its unique desert landscape and beautiful canyons, it’s no wonder why this national park is so popular. In this blog post we will explore the top attractions to visit in Death Valley National Park, what to bring with you when you visit, and how to make the most of your experience. Read on to find out more about the amazing natural beauty waiting to be discovered in Death Valley National Park.

Human presence in Death Valley National Park

Human presence in Death Valley National Park is a long and varied history. The first humans are thought to have arrived in the area 10,000-20,000 years ago. These early people were likely nomadic hunter-gatherers who followed game and other resources through the region.

Over time, certain groups began to settle in specific locations within the park. One of the most well-known of these groups is the Timbisha Shoshone, who have lived in the area for over 1000 years. In recent centuries, Death Valley has also been home to miners, ranchers, homesteaders, and tourists. Today, human presence in the park is largely centered around tourism. Visitors come from all over the world to experience Death Valley’s unique landscapes and natural features. While here, they may also take part in activities such as hiking, camping, stargazing, and more.

Things to do in Death Valley National Park

1. Visit the Furnace Creek Visitor Center to learn about the history and geology of Death Valley National Park. 2. Drive or hike through some of the iconic valleys and canyons, such as Artist’s Drive, Badwater Basin, and Mosaic Canyon. 3. Take in the views from one of the many scenic outlooks, such as Dante’s View, Zabriskie Point, or Golden Canyon Overlook. 4. Go for a swim in one of the park’s natural hot springs, such as Travertine Springs or Tekopa Hot Springs. 5. Take a ranger-led tour or hike to explore more about the plants, animals, and geological features of the park. 6. stargaze at one of the darkest places in North America – you might even see the Milky Way!

[humbleboar]

jumping back in time for roll 3. the start of the film is about a year old and i guess i waited too long to get it developed, leading to some degradation.... however i think it gives the photos a fun retro vibe?

1 & 2. depoe bay, aka the world's smallest navigable harbor! cutest place, we had a b&b right on the cliff side and obviously i made my sister watch the sunset over the pacific

3. cape meares lighthouse, the shortest lighthouse on the oregon coast. also it has a face.

4. i liked those trees on the rocks out at sea. instantly captured my imagination. apparently i just like trees and water?

5. shoshone falls in idaho

6. minnow................... he's so fucking cute here

ppl will see me w my ancient beat up film camera my dad bought 45 yrs ago and assume that i actually know what i'm doing and ask me to take their precious commemorative photos but what i need these ppl to understand is that i'm the most amateur photographer to ever photograph

anyway i took 4(ish. the 4th was super old and they were only able to get 4 photos off it) rolls of film to get developed on saturday and got the files back this evening. gonna reblog a few times w highlights from each roll bc i think that's fun! this one features the pond next to our tent at the eclipse (where the frog that hopped into our tent came from, methinks), an actual (bad!) photo of the eclipse but it's fun bc u can see the rings it made off to the side, a rest stop somewhere in NM where i made my dad walk w me over to the employee's building to take pics bc i was charmed by the fact the flowers were the same color as the building and the trash can, and my neighbor's cherry tree :)

[quaranmine]

and uhh sorry, its me once again, but yeah... is it weird to make a fix it for a heavy angst fanfic? is this podfic category of fanart now? well, either way, me and my bestie decided that scar deserves a bestie of his own so, behold, a cub! So uhh in my fix it au cub is a proffesional scientist who ahs decided to take a break from his overwheleming career and stuff and so he became a firewatcher to pursue his ornithology hobby. and then he meets scar and they become besties and scar can talk all about movies and stuff and cub can tell him bird facts Oh! and scar would describe the birds on his windowsill or something and cub would try to decipher what bird it is :3 sorry for the spam.. but i just really liked this whole story and ahhh i just couldnt help myself and make scar not alone anymore, this time for good ^^''

You're allowed to do whatever you want with my fic! I think what you're referring to is recursive work (fancontent of a fanfic.) I love that this story is inspiring fix it content lol

Cub! Cub is in this AU as a friend of Scar's. But he's not mentioned in the main fic, just in one of the little supplemental drabbles and also in the as-yet-unwritten Scar-centric idea. Feel free to do whatever headcanons you want of him though, anything not in the main fic is fair game for people to fill in as they like.

I love your headcanon, it's very cute! Especially Scar describing all the birds he sees and Cub telling him about them :(((( I LOVE those vibes. They'd have so much fun talking about whatever. (Speaking of—is Cub an ornithology guy in real life/in HC or is that also a headcanon about him?)

To add some of my own ideas about Cub in this AU, since Cub has a background in astrophysics irl, I gave him a similar background in the story's universe. He's an astrophysicist from Chicago. I really like the idea of him being into astrophotography and going to the Yellowstone/Shoshone for some good, dark night skies. He'd be a film photographer at this time period, which I honestly think makes star photography even cooler.

All the details are up to you though :) anything not in the main fic is totally fair game to theorize or headcanon about

[writingwithcolor]

I'm writing an AU of a movie that takes place in the 1880s USA, where a travelling white character and a Jewish character are waylaid by Native Americans, who they befriend. Probably because it was written by and about PoC (Jews) the scene actually avoids the stuff on your Native American Masterpost, but I'd still like to do better than a movie made in the 1980's, and I feel weird cutting them from the plot entirely. I have a Jewish woman reading it for that, but are there any things you (1/1)

2/2 1880s western movie ask--are there things you'd LIKE to see in a movie where a white man and a Jewish man run into Native Americans in the 1880s? I do plan to base them on a real tribe (Ute, probably) and have proper housing/clothes and so forth, but right now I'm just trying to avoid or subvert awful cowboy movie tropes. Any ideas?

White and Jewish Men, Native American interactions in 1880s

I am vaguely concerned with how you only cite one of our posts about Native Americans, that was not written by a Native person, and do not cite any of the posts relating to this time period, or any posts relating to representation in media. 

Sidenote: if you want us to give accurate reflections of the media you’re discussing, please tell us the NAME. I cannot go look up this movie based off this description to give you an idea of what my issues are with this scene, and must instead trust that the representation is good based off your judgement. I cannot make my own judgement. This is a problem. Especially since your whole question boils down to “this scene is good but not great and I want it to be great. How can I do that?”

Your baseline for “good” could very well be my baseline for “terrible hack job”. I can’t give you the proper education required for you to be able to accurately evaluate the media you’re watching for racist stereotypes if you don’t tell me what you’re even working with.

When you’re writing fanfic where the media is directly relevant to the question, please tell us the name of the media. We will not judge your tastes. We need this information in order to properly help you.

Moving on.

I bring up my concern for you citing that one—exceptionally old—post because it is lacking in many of the tropes that don’t exist in the media critique field but exist in the real world. This is an issue I have run into countless times on WWC (hence further concern you did not cite any other posts) and have spoken about at length. 

People look at the media critique world exclusively, assume it is a complete evaluation of how Native Americans are seen in society, and as a result end up ignoring some really toxic stereotypes and then come to the inbox with “these characters aren’t abc trope, so they’re fine, but I want to rubber stamp them anyway. Anything wrong here?”. The answer is pretty much always yes. 

Issue one: “Waylaid” by Native Americans

This wording is extremely loaded for one reason: Native American people are seen as tricksters, liars, and predators. This is the #1 trope that shows up in the real world that does not show up in media critique. It’s also the trope I have talked about the most when it comes to media representation, so you not knowing the trope is a sign you haven’t read the entirety of the Native tag—which is in the FAQ as something we would really prefer you did before coming at us to answer questions. It avoids us having to re-explain ourselves.

Now, hostility is honestly to be expected for the time period the movie is set in. This is in the beginnings (or ramping up) of residential schools in America* and Canada, we have generations upon generations of stolen or killed children, reserves being allocated perhaps hundreds of miles from sacred sites, and various wars with Plains and Southwest peoples are in full force (Wounded Knee would have happened in 1890, in December, and the Dakoa’s mass execution would have been in 1862. Those are just the big-name wars. There absolutely were others). 

*America covers up its residential schools abuse extremely thoroughly, so if you try to research them in the American context you will come up empty. Please research Canada’s schools and apply the same abuse to America, as Canada has had a Truth and Reconciliation Commission about residential schools and therefore is more (but not completely) transparent about the abuse that happened. Please note that America’s history with residential schools is longer than Canada’s history. There is an extremely large trigger warning for mass child death when you do this research.

But just because the hostility is expected does not mean that this hostility would be treated well in the movie. Especially when you consider the sheer amount of tension between any Native actors and white actors, for how Sacheen Littlefeather had just been nearly beaten up by white actors at the 1973 Academy Awards for mentioning Wounded Knee, and the American Indian Religious Freedom Act had only been passed two years prior in 1978. 

These Native actors would not have had the ability to truly consent to how they were shown, and this power dynamic has to be in your mind when you watch this scene over. I don’t care that the writers were from a discriminated-against background. This does not always result in being respectful, and I’ve also spoken about this power imbalance at length (primarily in the cowboy tag).

Documentaries and history specials made in the 2010s (with some degree of academic muster) will still fall into wording that harkens Indigenous people to wolves and settlers as frightened prey animals getting picked off by the mean animalistic Natives. This is not neutral, or good. This is perpetuating the myth that the settlers were helpless, just doing their own thing completely unobtrusively, and then the evil territorial Native Americans didn’t want to share.

To paraphrase Batman: if I had a week I couldn’t explain all the reasons that’s wrong.

How were these characters waylaid by the Native population? Because that answer—which I cannot get because you did not name the media—will determine how good the framing is. But based on the time period this movie was made alone, I do not trust it was done respectfully.

Issue 2: “Befriending”

I mentioned this was in an intense period of residential schools and land wars all in that area. The Ute themselves had just been massacred by Mormons in the Grass Valley Massacre in 1865, with ten men and an unknown number of women and children killed thanks to a case of assumed association with a war chief (Antonga Black Hawk) currently at war with Utah. The Paiute had been massacred in 1866. Over 100 Timpanogo men had been killed, with an unknown number of women and children enslaved by Brigham Young in Salt Lake City in 1850, with many of the enslaved people dying in captivity (those numbers were not tracked, but I would assume at least two hundred were enslaved— that’s simply assuming one woman/wife and one child for every man, and the numbers could have very well been higher if any war-widows and their children were in the group, not to mention families with multiple children). This is after an unknown group of Indigenous people had been killed by Governor Brigham Young the year prior, to “permanently stop cattle theft” from settlers. 

The number of Native Americans killed in Utah in the 1800s—just the number of dead counted (since women and children weren’t counted)—in massacres not tied to war (because there was at least one war) is over 130. The actual number of random murders is much higher; between the uncounted deaths and how the Governor had issued orders to “deal with” the problem of cattle theft permanently. I doubt you would have been tried or convicted if you murdered Indigenous peoples on “your” land. This is why it’s called state sanctioned genocide.

This is not counting the Black Hawk War in Utah (1865-1872), which the Ute were absolutely a part of (the wiki articles I read were contradictory if Antonga Black Hawk was Ute or Timpanogo, but the Ute were part of it). The first official massacre tied to the war—the Bear River Massacre, ordered by the US Military—places the death count of just that singular massacre at over five hundred Shoshone, including elders, women, and children. It would not be unreasonable to assume that the number of Indigenous people killed in Utah from 1850, onward, is over a thousand, perhaps two or three.

Pardon me for not reading beyond that point to list more massacres and simply ballparking a number; the source will be linked for you to get an accurate number of dead.

So how did they befriend the Native population? Let alone see them as fully human considering the racism of the time period? Natives were absolutely not seen as fully human so long as they were tied to their culture, and assimilation equalling some sliver of respect was already a stick being waved around as a threat. This lack of humanity continues to the present day.

I’m not saying friendship is impossible. I am saying the sheer levels of mistrust that would exist between random wandering groups of white/pale men and Indigenous communities wouldn’t exactly make that friendship easy. Having the scene end be a genuine friendship feels ignorant and hollow and flattening of ongoing genocide, because settlers lied about their intentions and then lined you up for slauther (that’s how the Timpanogo were killed and enslaved).

Utah had already done most of its mass killing by this point. The era of trusting them was over. There was an active open hunting season, and the acceptable targets were the Indigenous populations of Utah.

(sources for the numbers: 

List of Indian Massacres in North America Black Hawk War (1865-1872))

Issue 3: “Proper housing/clothes and so forth”

Do you mean Western style settlements and jeans? If yes, congratulations you have written a reservation which means the land-ripped-away wounds are going to be fresh, painful, and sore.

You do not codify what you mean by “proper”, and proper is another one of those deeply loaded colonial words that can mean “like a white man” or “appropriate for their tribe.” For the time period, it would be the former. Without specifying which direction you’re going for, I have no idea what you’re imagining. And without the name of the media, I don’t know what the basis of this is.

The reservation history of this time period seems to maybe have some wiggle room; there were two reservations allocated for the Ute at this time, one made in 1861 and another made in 1882 (they were combined into the Uintah and Ouray Indian Reservation in 1886). This is all at the surface level of a google and wikipedia search, so I have no idea how many lived in the bush and how many lived on the reserve. 

There were certainly land defenders trying to tell Utah the land did not belong to them, so holdouts that avoided getting rounded up were certainly possible. But these holdouts would be far, far more hostile to anyone non-Native.

The Ute seemed to be some degree of lucky in that the reserve is on some of their ancestral territory, but any loss of land that large is going to leave huge scars. 

It should be noted that reserves would mean the traditional clothing and housing would likely be forbidden, because assimilation logic was in full force and absolutely vicious at this time. 

It’s a large reserve, so the possibility exists they could have accidentally ended up within the borders of it. I’m not sure how hostile the state government was for rounding up all the Ute, so I don’t know if there would have been pockets of them hiding out. In present day, half of the Ute tribe lives on the reserve, but this wasn’t necessarily true historically—it could have been a much higher percentage in either direction.

It’s up to you if you want to make them be reservation-bound or not. Regardless, the above mentioned genocide would have been pretty fresh, the land theft in negotiations or already having happened, and generally, the Ute would be well on their way to every assimilation attempt made from either residential schools, missionaries, and/or the forced settlement and pre-fab homes.

To Answer Your Question

I don’t want another flattened, sanitized portrayal of genocide.

Look at the number of dead above, the amount of land lost above, the amount of executive orders above. And try to tell me that these people would be anything less than completely and totally devastated. Beyond traumatized. Beyond broken hearted. Absolutely grief stricken with almost no soul left.

Their religion would have been illegal. Their children would have been stolen. Their land was taken away. A saying about post-apocalyptic fiction is how settler-based it is, because Indigenous people have already lived through their own apocalypse.

It would have all just happened at the time period this story is set in. All of the grief you feel now at the environment changing so drastically that you aren’t sure how you’ll survive? Take that, magnify it by an exponential amount because it happened, and you have the mindset of these Native characters.

This is not a topic to tread lightly. This is not a topic to read one masterpost and treat it as a golden rule when there is too much history buried in unmarked, overfull graves of school grounds and cities and battlefields. I doubt the movie you’re using is good representation if it doesn’t even hint at the amount of trauma these Native characters would have been through in thirty years.

A single generation, and the life that they had spent millennia living was gone. Despite massive losses of life trying to fight to preserve their culture and land.

Learn some history. That’s all I can tell you. Learn it, process it, and look outside of checklists. Look outside of media. 

And let us have our grief.

~ Mod Lesya

On Question Framing

Please allow me the opportunity to comment on “are there things you'd LIKE to see in a movie where a white man and a Jewish man run into Native Americans in the 1880s?” That strikes me as the same type of question as asking what color food I’d like for lunch. I don’t see how the cultural backgrounds of characters I have literally no other information about is supposed to make me want anything in particular about them. I don’t know anything about their personalities or if they have anything in common.

Compare the following questions:

“Are there things you’d like to see in a movie where two American women, one from a Nordic background and one Jewish, are interacting?” I struggle to see how our backgrounds are going to yield any further inspiration. It certainly doesn’t tell you that we’re both queer and cling to each other’s support in a scary world; it doesn’t tell you that we uplift each other through mental illness; it doesn’t go into our 30 years of endless bizarre inside jokes related to everything from mustelids to bad subtitles.

Because: “white”, “Jewish”, and “Native American” aren’t personality words. You can ask me what kind of interaction I’d like to see from a high-strung overachieving woman and a happy-go-lucky Manic Pixie Dream Girl, and I’ll tell you I’d want fluffy f/f romance. Someone else might want conflict ultimately resolving in friendship. A third person might want them slowly getting on each other’s nerves more and more until one becomes a supervillain and the other must thwart her. But the same question about a cultural demographic? That told me nothing about the people involved.

Also, the first time I meet a new person from a very different culture, it might take weeks before discussion of our specific cultural differences comes up. As a consequence, my first deep conversations with a Costa Rican American gentile friend were not about Costa Rica or my Jewishness but about things we had in common: classical music and coping with breakups--which are obviously conversations I could have had if we were both Jewish, both Costa Rican gentiles, or both something else. So in other words, I’m having trouble seeing how knowing so little about these characters is supposed to give me something to want to see on the page.

Thank you for understanding.

(And yes, I agree with Lesya, what’s with this trend of people trying to explain their fandom in a roundabout way instead of mentioning it by name? It makes it harder to give meaningful help….)

--Shira

[dollplantcatlady]

Historical fiction for fans of American Girl/Dear America

Thinking back to the OC post I recently made... Some of the doll stories I’d like to see are related to my own life experiences, but not all of them! I’ve gotten a lot of inspiration and daydreams from other book series. (Example: The Dear America book “Color Me Dark” is the reason I would love to see a Great Migration doll.)

Historical fiction has always been my favorite genre since I was old enough to read. In the late 90s and early 2000s, there were so many educational series at the library to keep me entertained. (Though I absolutely had a Babysitters Club phase too.) I found a lot of discontinued books are still available digitally for Kindle/Nook or through Thriftbooks. If you want to find something new for your young reader (or yourself) or experience some nostalgia you might have forgotten, read on!

Dear Canada/My Story (UK)

Like the more well-known Dear America, each book is a diary written from the perspective of a young girl. I believe Australia and New Zealand have done the same, but I haven’t been able to find any of those books online for Americans to buy. A lot of the Dear Canada books are available for the Nook app (through Barnes & Noble) and My Story ebooks can be downloaded for Kindle. 

My personal favorites, copied from Wikipedia: (I love stories about “found family” and have always been fascinated by the TItanic)

Orphan at My Door: The Home Child Diary of Victoria Cope, Guelph, Ontario, 1897

That Fatal Night: The Titanic Diary of Dorothy Wilton, Halifax, Nova Scotia, 1912

To Stand on My Own: The Polio Epidemic Diary of Noreen Robertson, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, 1937

Pieces of the Past: The Holocaust Diary of Rose Rabinowitz, Winnipeg, Manitoba, 1948

The Great Plague: The Diary of Alice Paynton, London, 1665–1666 (I read this one during covid lockdown)

Victorian Workhouse: The Diary of Edith Lorriner, London, 1871

Mysteries through History

An American Girl series that was discontinued in 2004. These books cover more mature, darker topics than the main series. The AG wiki recommends them for early teenagers rather than pre-teen girls. Quite a few are available on Amazon for Kindle. 

I haven’t read as many of these but I have enjoyed:

Mystery on Skull Island by Elizabeth McDavid Jones (Charleston, SC 1721)

The Strange Case of Baby H by Kathryn Reiss (San Francisco, 1906)

Girls of Many Lands

Another discontinued series from American Girl, these books covered historical events across the world, from Ireland to India. The only one I’ve read is Minuk: Ashes in the Pathway, which takes place in Alaska in 1890 when the main character meets American missionaries for the first time. (Just expand her story and move her over to the historical doll line, it’d be so good!) 

I found my copy at a library sale. These are easy to find at used bookstores, both online and off.

Journey to America by Clare Pastore

There are 3 books in this miniseries. I’ve read the first two and own the Irish one:

Fiona McGilray's Story: A Voyage from Ireland in 1849 

Aniela Kaminski's Story: A Voyage from Poland During World War II

Chantrea Conway's Story: A Voyage From Cambodia In 1975

The books aren’t available in digital form, but you can find copies under ~$5 on Thriftbooks or eBay. 

American Diaries by Kathleen Duey

I honestly can’t remember the quality or reading level of these books, but I distinctly remember the series being on the tip of my tongue for the longest time, before I came across one online. I remember child-me curled up in her favorite library chair, reading the Summer MacCleary one, which was about an indentured servant in colonial Virginia.

Some unique eras available on Thriftbooks: Puritan Massachusetts, a French/Shoshone girl in 1820s Idaho, California gold rush, Civil War Louisiana, reconstruction-era Mississippi, late-1800s Texas, 1920s Hollywood

American Sisters by Laurie Lawlor

Another series I can remember reading, but the details have escaped my mind. These stories focus on families rather than individual girls. Available cheaply on Thriftbooks. 

Some subjects include: Early 1700s Boston, late 1700s Kentucky, Civil War-era Colorado, 1900s Asian immigration to California

Betsy-Tacy Series by Maud Hart Lovelace

This book series isn’t quite the same format as the others, but I had to include it because it was my favorite series as a kid. Published in the 1940s, it revolves around the lives of Betsy and her two best friends as they grow up in Victorian/Edwardian Minnesota. (My home state!) A unique aspect of the series is how each book gets longer and more complex as Betsy ages. The first book starts when she’s 5 and the last ends when she marries in her early 20s. All are available for Kindle but I also have paperback copies. They were reprinted in the early 2000s so I’ve found some at thrift stores. 

Surprise surprise, the used dolls I bought to fix up will be turned into Betsy, Tacy, and Tib! I’m so excited to start working on them. 

[willowsallen]

anyway while on the topic of booboo stewart (everybody’s favorite pretendian - seriously, how hard is it to play him as his actual race? instead of making one up for him?) he was also playing an indian in this movie about residential schools called let him go:

In Let Him Go, Stewart plays Peter Dragswolf, a lone young man who is a survivor of the Indian Residential Schools, a real program established in the United States with the aim to assimilate Native American children into American culture.

Stewart did a lot of research into the residential schools, which were active from the late 1800s to the 1980s in order to get in touch with his character and to understand his isolated lifestyle.

so glad the schools that my grandfather went to, where he was beaten, forced to cut his hair, and nearly forced to change his name (his birth name is frank, they called him francis and refused to believe his name was just frank??? weirdos), are something this fake ass native man did a lot of research on. idc if you play booboo, but don’t go playing him as a native, or ignoring how he’s taken native roles from real life native people.

check under the cut for sources and links to things he’s done and how he’s continuously taking native roles from indigenous people

adding on: hey y’all here’s literally a link where booboo himself, in the flesh, a real life person, using his own voice, from his vocal chords, of his own volition, has said he’s native american

here’s another link where the interviewer is asking julia jones and booboo collectively about their personal native american heritage and portraying a native american in twilight - guess what? he talks about how he’s just playing a “character” and never once disputes that he’s native

being silent, not speaking out, is the same as accepting being native

besides the movie let him go, like i stated above, here are ten other roles booboo has stolen

1. The Grizzlies (Inuit)

2. Twilight Saga (Quilete)

3. American Satan (literally Lakota they are not creative in names)

4. The Red Man's View (Shoshone)

5. The UnBroken (idk tribe some tribe from Arizona tho)

6. Westworld (it's a fictional tribe but is Native to the Americas so)

7. Paradise City (literally Lakota they are not creative in names yet again)

8. Mortal Kombat X: Generations (it's a fictional tribe but is Native to the Americas so)

9. Hawaii Five-0 (Native Hawaiian)

10. Good Luck Charlie (Native Hawaiian)

[themonsterblog]

Sasquatch of the Sierra Nevada

The Shoshone tell of a Jarbidge, or hairy devil; a large hairy, man-eating beast that was thought to prey on those who wandered away from the tribe. Large foot prints have shown up in Shoshone petroglyphs along side deer and other wildlife tracks on rocks along the Sierra Nevada range.

October 1985 in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, 19 year old marine, Butch Young was training at the Marine Mountain Warfare Training Center near Mono Lake, California. His squad was sent into the mountains one night for a training exercise. Butch remarks that that night was cold, there was snow on the ground, and they were patrolling at an elevation around 7,000 to 8,000 ft. The full moon illuminated 2 figures in the trees that, at first, was assumed to be the enemy squad. Upon further observation, Young noted that the figures were acting contrary to how a trained marine would act, giving no effort to conceal themselves, nor could he see evidence of a weapon or uniform. Young’s squad continued to watch the figures from a distance of 25-35 yards. Young states that from that distance he could clearly make out individual fingers of the hand of one of the figures in the moonlight. After a quiet stand off, the figures disappeared into the woods. The next morning, the squad reported to the center, only to find out that the aggressor squad was no where in the vicinity of Young’s squad. They were in fact 2 clicks away. Young said in an interview with the Ohio Bigfoot Hunters: “I saw something that haunted me for over 20 years. After doing some research and after talking to Bigfoot Researchers and some soul searching, I could only deduce and come to the conclusion that what I saw were 2 Sasquatches during a Mountain Warfare Training Operation with the USMC.”

Jaime Avalos is a man who has claimed to have tracked a family unit of the same 3 Sasquatch for over 2 years and across 400 miles. His story began in June of 2006 while driving about 30 miles southwest of Mono Lake in California. He claims that a creature that stood about 7 foot tall crossed the road in front of him. Avalos stated that his first thought was “What the heck is a guy in a gorilla suit doing up at this elevation?” The creature continued into the brush line out of sight and Avalos began to pull forward again when the creature doubled back across the road blocking his path once again. Avalos said then that he could see the details of muscle moving underneath the creature’s dark fur. Avalos felt that had the creature wanted to, it could have easily ripped him from his vehicle and Jaime would be helpless to do anything to prevent it from doing so. Since then, Avalos has found tracks consistently measuring 11, 10, and 8 inches on both the east and west side of the Sierras. In an episode of History Channel’s Monster Quest, Dr. Jeff Meldrum, Professor of Anatomy and Anthropology at Idaho State University and Bigfoot Authority, compared his own extensive collection of supposed Sasquatch track castings to those that Avalos had collected over the 2 1/2 years he had been tracking the group. Meldrum noted the much smaller size of Avalos’ prints, as the average Bigfoot track measures around 16 inches and is relatively flat, unlike Avalos’ prints that have a pronounced arch, similar to human foot prints. Despite the arch and smaller proportions, Avalos maintained that these could not be the prints of a human based on the terrain and circumstances they were found. Dr. Meldrum suggested that since there are almost no records of juvenile Sasquatch tracks, that it is very possible that when young, Sasquatch exhibit more human foot features that flatten and broaden as they mature.

October 2005 in Brown Cone, Sierra National Forest, Joe Walls was deer hunting around 8:30am. After hiking for a few hours he stopped to rest before heading back to his camp. At approximately 11:15, he stood up from his resting spot and picked up his rifle. At that time, a large fur-covered creature with red eyes walked out from behind a tree, they had a moment of prolonged eye contact before the creature swiftly disappeared further into the forest. As he watched the creature run off, he caught sight of movement to his left, he turned to see another two creatures, one large and one small, possibly an adult and a juvenile, quickly follow the first creature into the woods. Walls defends the claim that they were not humans dressed in costumes stating that it was hunting season and would be far too dangerous to be dressed like that in the woods at that time.

Mono Lake 1991, a man records his wife and children playing on the lakeside, as he pans across the horizon, something can be seen walking between rock formations on the beach. The figure wasn’t noticed until 17 years later when another family member watched the film. Stutchman Forensics Lab in Napa Valley, California took the film back to Mono Lake, and despite the shoreline rising 7 feet since 1991, managed to match the site of the film to the current horizon. After taking measurements and further analysis of the film, Video Forensics Analysts Steve Buller and Gregg Stutchmen determined the figure to be under the current waterline and measuring at a height of 6-8 feet.

Despite evidence inconsistent with other Bigfoot research across the country, Biologist John Mionczynski, although a skeptic, does state that the environment of the Sierra Nevadas would be able to sustain a large primate due to sufficient sources of protein with lake trout, deer, and pine nuts as well as proper cover and foliage. The smaller size could be explained as a regional difference and the corridors of movement discovered by Jaime Avalos could be evidence of a omnivorous primate following the ripening of pine cones.

Is there a small breeding family unit of Sasquatch in the Sierra Nevada Mountains? People have been seeing something in the mountains bordering California and Nevada for centuries, but definitive evidence to support their claims has yet to be found. Unfortunately eye witness testimony and physical evidence seem to contradict one another. The Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization or BFRO continues to record sightings in the Sierras, the most recent being in July of 2020 at Mono Lake. After all of the craziness this year in 2020, there is no telling if 2021 could bring solid evidence of Sasquatch in the Sierras.