Documentary Films & Educational DVDs

Long Before We Were Born explores the concept of how people lived before modern conveniences. Topics include food and water, shelter, staying warm, money, transportation and communication - within the context of the “natural community.” Includes a Klallam story told by Elaine Grinnell (Jamestown S'Klallam). Good 'Then and Now' resource. 2nd – 3rd grade classroom DVD, 45 minutes, chaptered.

How Tribes Got Their Names: A Montana Example helps students learn the twelve tribes of Montana, signs for the tribes, and names they call themselves. Through map reference, students learn where tribes used to live and where they live now. They will also recognize how incorrectly interpreted sign language caused long-lasting misunderstandings. 4th – 5th grade classroom DVD, 1/2 hour, chaptered.

Talking Without Words in the Old West draws on a wealth of historical resources. Viewers learn about the challenges people face when communicating with people who speak another language. Focus is on non-verbal ways native peoples of the old west communicated with each other, and with Europeans. 5th – 6th grade classroom DVD, 23 min, chaptered.

Native Homelands along the Lewis & Clark Trail presents another experience of American history. In this film focused on life 200 years ago, tribal members tell you about their cultures and history, from the Knife River villages of North Dakota to the mouth of the Columbia – the way it has been passed down through the generations. Exquisite scenic and wildlife footage bring these tribal homelands to life. You are witness to a conversation about issues as important today as they were 200 years ago. 4th – 10th grade documentary film, 45 min.

Contemporary Voices along the Lewis & Clark Trail takes viewers along old trails through landscapes rich with the living legacy of people whose lifeways have been dramatically altered since their first contact with Europeans. Get acquainted with the perspectives of 18 men and women representing 13 tribes from the hills of Kansas to the mouth of the Columbia River. From them learn the stories of descendents of people encountered by Lewis and Clark. High School documentary film, 28 minutes.

Tribal Perspectives on American History, Volume I – Northwest Here, Indian people tell another version of history from the one we learned in school. Instead of the familiar themes of exploration, mining, and settlement, this video recounts history from the viewpoint of tribes. Geared toward Middle and High School U.S. History classes, with chapters complementing those of most textbooks. 7th – 12th grade classroom DVD, 75 min, chaptered.

Tribal Perspectives on American History, Volume II – Great Plains, Upper Missouri Basin Integrates the traditions, histories, and cultures of indigenous people in the Great Plains to the classroom in an engaging and thoughtful manner. Designed to companion with American History curriculum in middle and high school, this DVD provides unique opportunities to educate students on a range of topics and themes concerning native people of the upper Great Plains. 7th – 12th grade classroom DVD, 115 min, chaptered.

Why Save a Language? Tribal languages are disappearing at an alarming rate. This film reviews the history of indigenous language loss, documents some current efforts to stem the tide, and explores the reasons that these languages matter, not only for the tribes themselves but for all of us. High School & Adult documentary film, 27 min.