Exploring Land Rights: Insights from "Killers of the Flower Moon"

Dear readers,

Welcome to our newsletter! Today, we delve into the thought-provoking film "Killers of the Flower Moon," directed by Martin Scorsese and based on David Grann's book. This gripping narrative uncovers the shocking true story of the Osage Indian murders in the 1920s, while shedding light on the complex legal concepts surrounding land rights. In this newsletter, we explore the significance of these legal concepts portrayed in the film and their impact on the historical events depicted.

Background:
Set in the early 20th century, "Killers of the Flower Moon" revolves around the Osage Nation, a Native American tribe forced to relocate to Oklahoma due to the Indian Removal Act of 1830. Following the discovery of oil beneath their land, the Osage became incredibly wealthy. However, their newfound fortune attracted greed, corruption, and a series of murders targeting the Osage for their wealth.

Key Legal Concepts:
One of the key legal concepts explored in the movie is land rights. The Allotment Act of 1887, also known as the Dawes Act, aimed to assimilate Native Americans by dividing tribal lands into individual allotments. For the Osage people, this had devastating consequences. While their land was initially considered "unfit" for agriculture, the discovery of oil on their allotted land led to a scramble for control and exploitation.

The Osage's land rights were further complicated by the concept of mineral rights. This meant that, even though the Osage owned the surface land, others could claim the valuable resources beneath it. Protecting their wealth, the U.S. government appointed "guardians" to manage the Osage's finances. Unfortunately, corruption and fraud plagued this system, further fueling the crimes depicted in the movie.

Implications and Contemporary Discussions:
The events portrayed in "Killers of the Flower Moon" highlight the lasting impact of historical injustices on indigenous communities. Land rights, mineral rights, and the exploitation of Native Americans have significant implications for contemporary discussions surrounding indigenous sovereignty and reparations.

Land rights in the United States have a complex history tied to slavery and the dispossession of marginalized communities. The institution of slavery relied on land ownership, with enslaved people considered property. After the abolition of slavery, the broken promise of "40 acres and a mule" further marginalized African Americans, perpetuating cycles of land dispossession and economic inequality.

The fight for land justice extends beyond the African American community. Indigenous peoples have faced centuries of land dispossession and forced removal. Recognizing and addressing these injustices is crucial for achieving reconciliation and restoring autonomy to indigenous communities.

Understanding the connection between land rights and slavery, as well as the unfulfilled promise of "40 acres and a mule," helps us comprehend the systemic challenges faced by marginalized communities. By acknowledging and rectifying these historical injustices, we can strive towards a more equitable society that recognizes and respects the rights of all individuals and communities.

Thank you for joining us on this exploration of land rights in "Killers of the Flower Moon." Stay tuned for more thought-provoking discussions and insights in our upcoming newsletters.

Best regards,

Patience Babajide, Esq.