California the Movie (Emily Quirke)

Scene II: Flood of New People

This scene begins as Coyote is a young man living in the Luiseno area of Southern California. He has never seen Europeans before, but has heard rumors of their imminent arrival. Though Coyote is technically 'uneducated' and young, he is charismatic and kind, and thus is considered to be a leader of his tribe. This tribe of people got along very well with one another, but were not fond of neighboring tribes such as the Gabrieleno tribe and the Tataviam tribe. Though the Luiseno tribe preferred to be secluded from the other tribes, they often received news and current events from these neighboring societies. Nearby communities had told the Luisenos of a 'tribe' of white men who traveled on strange beasts and came by water. 
Eventually the day arrived when two massive ships arrived on the coast; Coyote was one of the first indians to spot the vessel. Because Coyote was so well respected, he was sent to figure out who these people were and if they posed any threat to the tribe members. 
"'What is it that you seek here? Get out of our country!'[Coyote asked], but they did not understand him, and they answered him in Spanish, and the captain began with signs, and the Fernando, understanding him, gave him gifts and in this manner made him his friend...This was that happy day in which we saw white people, by us called Sosabiton... Blessed be Thou from this day through future centuries." (Pablo Tac, page 149)
At first Coyote could not understand the strange language that these foreigners were speaking. Did they come in peace? What were they searching for? Were his people in trouble? After a lengthy conversation filled with pointing and hand signals, Coyote deemed the Spaniards to be safe, generous people. 
Coyote's first impression of the Spaniards was soon changed with the introduction of the missions... 
This scene ends with the native americans and the Spaniards on good terms; both feel in control of their people and do not suspect the other of rebellion or mistreatment. 
 

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