American Buffalo
Ken Burns' latest documentary explores the natural and cultural history of
Painting via Smithsonian American Art Museum; LaPier via UIUC

Best of: Illinois’ Rosalyn LaPier on her role in ‘The American Buffalo’

The buffalo sustained Native Americans for hundreds of generations — until they were hunted to near extinction in the 1800s. Those stories — and how the buffalo have recovered — are the subject of the latest documentary from Ken Burns, called “The American Buffalo.” University of Illinois Professor Rosalyn LaPier was featured prominently in the film. In October, before a live studio audience in Urbana, she talked with Brian Mackey about the film and her background as a member of the Blackfeet of Montana.

Ken Burns' latest documentary explores the natural and cultural history of
Provided by PBS: Bison by Craig Mellish, Ken Burns by Steve Holmes Photography

Best of: Ken Burns on ‘The American Buffalo’

The buffalo sustained Native Americans for hundreds of generations — until they were hunted to near extinction in the 1800s. Those stories — and how the buffalo have recovered — are the subject of the latest documentary from Ken Burns, called “The American Buffalo.” Today we’ll hear two conversations about the film. First, with Burns himself. Then, with one of the indigenous experts featured in the film — University of Illinois Professor Rosalyn LaPier.
 

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