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Authors

Charlot (c. 1831-1900)

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Questions for Discussion and Writing

Charlot's speech contrasts strongly with Cochise's. There are emotions and accusations here which are not evident in Cochise's transcribed, translated discourse. Charlot was a chief in the Flathead nation -- but his words may suggest rhetorical strategies which we have seen before -- in Apess, Paine, and other gifted earlier writers. And it is important to note that Charlot and nearly a hundred others were producing and signing a written document.

1. How is "the white man" personified and constructed in Charlot's speech? Given the way that Native Americans were portrayed by whites in newspaper reports, Capitol Hill rhetoric, and other public discourse, are any ironies or special strategies evident in Charlot's descriptions here?

2. Compare the conclusion of Charlot's speech with that of Cochise's. As persuasive writing, and as the presentation of a dignified and compelling personality, which seems to you to work better and why?