Smarthistory: Eastern Shoshone: Hide Painting of the Sun Dance, attributed to Cotsiogo (Cadzi Cody) by DR. LAUREN KILROY-EWBANK

GUIDING QUESTIONS

• By the later 19th Century, what kind of decoration had replaced geometric and figural motifs on hide paintings?

• What major life changing event happened to Cotsiogo (Cadzi Cody) during his lifetime?

• Who was this ELK HIDE painting likely made for?

• What difference Native American dances are featured on this elk hide painting?

• What was the purpose / function of the SUN DANCE?

• The United States Government outlawed the Sun Dance until what year?

• Why did Cadzi Cody include the OUTLAWED Sun Dance on his elk hide painting? Additionally, why did Cadzi Cody likely mix in elements of the WOLF DANCE with the SUN DANCE in his painting?

• Why is Cadzi Cody’s inclusion on buffalos on this elf hide painting historically inaccurate?

• What are the sad statistics provided by the NYT regarding the 14,000 current residents of the Wind River Reservation?