Chief Dan George
- Born:
- July 24, 1899, North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Died:
- September 23, 1981, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Nationality:
- Canadian
- Profession(s):
- Actor, Poet, Author, Activist
Early Life and Education
- Born as Geswanouth Slahoot, of the Coast Salish people.
- Attended St. Paul's Indian Residential School.
- Worked various jobs, including as a longshoreman, logger, and bus driver, before pursuing acting.
Career and Major Achievements
- Began his acting career in his 60s.
- Gained international recognition for his role in the film Little Big Man (1970), for which he received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
- Starred in numerous other films and television shows, often portraying Native American characters with dignity and depth.
- He worked to promote understanding and respect between cultures.
- While not directly involved in the production of "chief dan george josey wales pictures", he did contribute significantly to the portrayal of Native American characters in film, paving the way for more nuanced roles.
Notable Works
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1970 | Little Big Man | Old Lodge Skins |
| 1971 | Dan August (TV Series) | Chief Paul Ironwood |
| 1976 | The Outlaw Josey Wales | Lone Watie |
| 1979 | Spirit of the Wind | Moses |
Literary Works
- My Heart Soars (poetry)
- My Spirit Soars (poetry)
Legacy and Impact
Chief Dan George's acting career helped to break down stereotypes and create more positive representations of Indigenous people in media. His work as an author and poet further amplified his voice, advocating for understanding, respect, and reconciliation.
Awards and Recognition
| Award | Year | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor | 1971 | Nominated |
| Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor – Motion Picture | 1971 | Nominated |
| New York Film Critics Circle Award for Best Supporting Actor | 1970 | Won |