Floyd Westerman facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Floyd "Red Crow" Westerman
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Westerman aka Kanghi Duta
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Floyd Westerman
August 17, 1936 |
| Died | December 13, 2007 (aged 71) |
| Resting place | Saint Matthew's Catholic Cemetery, Veblen, South Dakota, U.S. |
| Other names | Kanghi Duta |
| Occupation | Actor, artist, musician |
| Years active | 1988–2007 |
| Political party | Independent |
| Spouse(s) | Rosie Westerman |
| Children | 5 |
Floyd Westerman, also known as Kanghi Duta (meaning "Red Crow" in the Dakota language), was a talented Dakota Sioux musician, activist, and actor. He was born on August 17, 1936, and passed away on December 13, 2007.
Floyd Westerman first became known as a country music singer. Later in his life, he started acting. He often played wise Native American elders in movies and TV shows. He was also a strong voice for Native American rights and causes.
Early Life and Heritage
Floyd Westerman was born on the Lake Traverse Indian Reservation in South Dakota. This reservation is home to the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate tribe. They are part of the larger Great Sioux Nation. His Native American name, Kanghi Duta, means "Red Crow" in the Dakota language.
When he was 10 years old, Floyd was sent to the Wahpeton Boarding School. There, he met Dennis Banks, who later became a leader of the American Indian Movement. At the school, children were often forced to cut their long hair and were not allowed to speak their native languages. This experience deeply affected Floyd.
As an adult, Floyd Westerman proudly reconnected with his heritage. He became a passionate supporter of preserving Indigenous cultures. He wanted to make sure Native traditions and languages were kept alive.
After school, Floyd earned a degree in education from Northern State University. He also served two years in the United States Marine Corps. After his military service, he began his career as a country singer.
Music and Acting Career
Floyd Westerman first gained fame as a country-western singer. His songs often talked about the impact of European cultures on Native American communities. He recorded several albums and worked with famous musicians like Jackson Browne, Willie Nelson, and Joni Mitchell. In the 1990s, he even toured with Sting to help raise money for protecting rain forests.
After many years as a singer, Floyd became interested in acting. His first movie role was in Renegades (1989). He played "Red Crow," a Lakota Sioux father. He then appeared in many other films.
Some of his well-known movie roles include:
- "Chief Ten Bears" in the famous movie Dances with Wolves (1990).
- The "shaman" for singer Jim Morrison in The Doors (1991).
- "Chief Eagle Horn" in Hidalgo (2004), which was about Buffalo Bill's circus.
- "Standing Elk" in the family film Tillamook Treasure (2006).
Floyd Westerman also had many roles on television. He played "George" on Dharma & Greg and "Uncle Ray" on Walker, Texas Ranger. He was also "One Who Waits" on Northern Exposure and "Albert Hosteen" on The X-Files. He also made public service announcements, including one for the United Nations Earth Summit in 1992.
Later Life and Legacy
Floyd Westerman continued to act and advocate for Native American rights throughout his life. His final film role was in Swing Vote (2008), which he finished shortly before his passing.
Floyd Westerman passed away on December 13, 2007, in Los Angeles. He died from complications related to leukemia. He is remembered for his powerful voice in music, his memorable acting roles, and his dedication to Native American causes. He left behind his wife, Rosie, four daughters, and a son.
Images for kids
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Floyd Westerman, also known as Kanghi Duta
