Montana Racism Essay

Montana 1948 by Larry Watson is set in an era where the prevailing attitude towards Indians is that they were inferior to whites and where therefore discriminated against, abused and isolated from the white community. There are several examples of racist attitudes; however mainly through the characters of Frank and Julian Hayden we can see that racial abuse of power leads to the exploitation of Indian women with tragic results not only for the Indians- the death of Marie- but also for the Hayden family whose relationship is permanently ruined.

In 1948 Watson shows that racism was alive throughout Montana. ‘’she’s an Indian- why would she tell the truth?’’ this shows that the white people, think the Indians will not be truthful, as they assume they would lie just to protect themselves.  Trust between Indian and white communities were insufficient. This is shown through the ignorance of white people due to them thinking that they are the superior race. Thus puts a negative impact on the Indian people and proved negative influence in humanity.

Some forms of racist attitudes are present from the beginning of the novel. David states that his father thought Indians were ‘’lazy, ignorant, superstitious and irresponsible’’. Wesley held them in low regard and this belief causes Wesley to house Marie in a small room in the kitchen despite the fact there is another empty bedroom in the ‘’second-floor’’-the floor where white people slept, because he thought Indians don’t deserve an actual bedroom.  Wes also says “and you believe her’’ this is when Gail confesses the truth about Frank Hayden being accused of molesting Indian girls, Marie. Wesley wouldn’t trust Marie because she was of a different race, he consider Indians as second-class citizens.

When the Hayden’s Indian housekeeper Marie Little Soldier falls severely ill, Gail and Wes suggested to calling his brother Frank their close family member and local doctor. When Marie hears about this, she started feel nervous and refuses to see a doctor. Nobody knows why Marie is against seeing a doctor but just assumes it is because of her heritage – Indian assumed to seek healing from potions or from some ‘’old-squaw’’ instead of having high-educated doctors. Regardless of Marie’s request, Gail and Wes continue to call Frank and set a schedule for appointment.  When Frank Hayden comes to visit and examine her, Marie screams to Gail to stay with her during the check-up. Gail approved Marie’s request and accompanies her through examination. After the examination, Frank stated ‘’ a doctor comes and they think he’s some evil spirit or something’’ (42). This statement shows has stereotypical image of an Indian in his mind and his mind, they are all delusional, spiritual followers. He identifies Indians as low class citizen and that they are out of place.