Educational Media Reviews Online

"Ely Parker was a Seneca chief, a federal engineer, U.S. Commissioner of Indian Affairs, a general during the Civil War and a military secretary to Ulysses S. Grant. Yet his successes became controversial and his quest for the American dream turned tragic."--catalog record summary.

This video is a documentary on a Native American, Ely Samuel Parker, 1828-1895, who became a great leader of the Seneca Nation as well as a notable figure in the world of White America. Ely S. Parker was a man of humble origins who struggled with adversity to become a well-respected man at a time when someone of his background would find success impossible. The production describes Parker's life and his impact on American history.

Raised on the Tonawanda Reservation in Western New York by parents who adopt European-American ways, Ely Parker begins a life that is different than other Native Americans of his time. A prophecy tells his mother that he will be a great leader in both the Indian and White worlds. She encourages him to learn all that he can to fit into the ascending White culture. As an early teenager, he takes the name Ely (pronounced EE-Lee) Parker (his given name is Häsanoanda), and practices English and American skills. Still, he is also trained in the Seneca traditions. He is, however driven by circumstances to become a strong "European" early in life.

Ely masters English, Latin, mathematics, and other fields of learning. He plays a vital role in helping his people to protect their lands and existence. His understanding of the White world assists in maintaining the Indian life. Before he is twenty years old, Parker has the respect of his tribe as well as the world of Washington politics - a true recognition of his talents. The Seneca make him a sachem (chief), naming him Donehogawa. He persistently fights for treaty protections to the Western New York tribe lands, and after many years is successful in his efforts.

Parker gradually moves into European-American society, pursuing a number of careers and pastimes. He becomes a civil engineer, a member of the local militia, a Mason, and an orator. He has the admiration and respect of Western New York Whites, and people in other parts of the country. He especially excels as a public speaker. All of this attention moves him more into the mainstream American society and further from his Native American roots.

A major turning point in Parker's career comes when he meets Ulysses S. Grant. The two become good friends at a time when both are struggling civilians. Grant gains his highest point during the Civil War, when he is given command of the Union Army. At this time, Grant gains a commission for Parker. Eventually, Parker becomes Grant's adjutant and secretary and is at his side through the final two years of the conflict. Late in the war, Parker spends time informally conversing with President Lincoln on Indian affairs. Parker is one of the last to see Lincoln on the day he is shot. Ely Parker is present at Appomattox when Robert E. Lee surrenders his army, virtually ending the Civil War. He is the man who writes the final surrender documents that are used, and Lee looks favorably on his presence during the proceedings.

Following the war, Parker remains in the White world, marrying a young Washington socialite and becoming engrossed in politics. When Grant becomes president, he names Parker Commissioner of Indian Affairs. Parker formulates U.S. Indian policy to protect and assist Native Americans, but is accused of betraying his heritage by other Native Americans, partly because some of his decisions side against them. Ely Parker works hard to do the right thing but cannot completely reconcile his background to his new life. After leaving government service, Parker becomes a businessman, but after misfortune in investing, ends up taking clerical jobs to survive.

Late in life, Parker realizes his place should be with his Indian heritage and position. He wants to return to the reservation but age and infirmity prevent this. Parker dies and is buried in Western New York, remembered by some but forgotten by most.

Warrior in Two Worlds fills an important gap in American history video collections by documenting the life of a person who is not well known today. It is accurate and without bias, and gives detailed attention to Parker's life. It brings to light the impact of cultural differences in our society. The quality of the video and sound are good. It has a well-written narrative and good visuals, including period photographs and art work, images of documents, and live-action recreations of scenes from Parker's life. The narration includes quotations of Parker, and is enhanced by comments from scholars and others that knew him. The narrator, Wes Studi is a respected Native American actor who breathes life into the words. This video production should be considered as a highly desirable addition to libraries at any level from intermediate school through adult.

Very highly recommended.