Yellowstone and the Buffalo

Creator: Danno Nell, Copyright: ©Paramount Network, 2019

Yellowstone is a television series on Paramount that has recently gained much attention and praise for its gripping plot line, stunning cinematography, and outstanding acting. However, one of the most notable aspects of the show is its portrayal of the American buffalo.

The American buffalo, commonly known as the bison, is an iconic symbol of the American Wild West and played a critical role in the survival of many Native American tribes. Sadly, these majestic animals were hunted to the brink of extinction in the late 19th century, with numbers dropping from an estimated 30 million to just a few hundred.

In Yellowstone, the American buffalo plays a pivotal role in the story. The show follows the Dutton family, who owns the largest contiguous ranch in the United States, located in Montana. As they fight to protect their land from developers and other threats, they also must contend with the ongoing struggle between ranchers and the government over the reintroduction of buffalo to the area.

Yellowstone presents a complex and nuanced view of the issue, highlighting the many perspectives at play. On the one hand, the Dutton family is fiercely protective of their land and livelihoods, and see the buffalo as a threat to their way of life. On the other hand, there are those who view the buffalo as a vital part of the natural ecosystem and believe they should be reintroduced to their former habitat.

The show also delves into the cultural significance of the buffalo to Native American communities, and the tragic history of their near-extinction at the hands of American settlers. In one episode, a Native American character speaks to the importance of the buffalo in their culture, saying "they're a symbol of who we are...when they were taken from us, something essential was taken from our people."

Overall, Yellowstone offers a nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of the complex relationship between Americans and the American buffalo. The show doesn't offer easy solutions or answers to the many issues at play, but rather invites viewers to grapple with the many perspectives and forces shaping the fate of these iconic animals. For anyone interested in the history and culture of the American West, Yellowstone is a must-watch.