Questions and Answers
What brought wealth to the Osage?
Osage County was located over massive oil deposits.
Who is Ernest Burkhart?
Mollie's husband.
What beliefs set Mollie apart from her two sisters (Anna and Minnie)?
Mollie was more respectful to Osage traditions compared to her sisters.
Which of Mollie's sisters are the first to die in the story?
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Why was it hard to determine the cause of Anna's death?
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How do the Shoun brothers find out that Anna's death had been a cold-blooded murder?
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What evidence is found around Anna's murder site?
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Why is oil considered a 'cursed blessing' to some Osage Indians?
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Who is William Hale?
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What skills did Osage girls learn in contrast to Osage boys?
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The Osage were able to negotiate for their territory's allotment and kept the precious minerals.
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The Osage are not interested in the oil wells erupting.
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Bounties are offered by the victims' families and friends despite the authorities working hard to solve the case.
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Why did private detective agencies fare better than government police during this era?
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Why were poisons the weapon of choice for murderers in rural areas?
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With each succeeding auction, the highest bid dwindled as ventures in Alaska were more profitable.
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How did newspapers portray the Osage's oil wealth?
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What happens to oilmen after the boom halts?
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Why couldn't the Osage spend their money as they pleased?
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Many white settlers attempted to steal Osage wealth. Which of the following was not an injustice faced by the Osage?
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Before Henry Roan was killed, what was his relationship with Mr. Hale?
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What do outsiders think is the purpose of the electric lightbulbs appearing on Osage houses?
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Whose house explodes in the story?
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Do Bill and Rita survive the explosion?
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How does the Reign of Terror affect Mollie's religious beliefs and health?
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Study Notes
Osage Wealth and Oil
- Osage County is built over significant oil deposits, leading to immense wealth for the Osage through leases and royalties.
- Oil discovery is viewed as a "cursed blessing," providing wealth but threatening cultural beliefs.
Key Characters
- Ernest Burkhart is Mollie’s husband and a pivotal figure in her story.
- William Hale, Ernest's uncle, transitions from cattle herding to becoming a stock-selling expert; he is seen as a benefactor to the Osage, despite ulterior motives.
Mollie Burkhart's Identity
- Mollie maintains respect for Osage traditions, contrasting with her sisters, Anna and Minnie.
- She showcases traditional attire, such as wrapping herself in an Indian blanket and expresses a desire for an arranged marriage.
Tragic Events and Investigations
- Anna, Mollie's sister, is the first to die under suspicious circumstances; her death remains unexplained initially due to decomposition.
- A bullet wound found on Anna's skull suggests foul play, indicating murder.
- Inexperienced lawmen fail to properly investigate the crime scene, missing crucial evidence such as fingerprints.
Law Enforcement and Public Perception
- Public perception of police is generally negative, viewed as corrupt and incompetent; private detectives gain popularity due to their perceived effectiveness.
- Law enforcement faces difficulties in solving crimes as they often neglect key investigative practices.
Societal Dynamics
- Osage girls are trained in domestic arts, while boys learn farming and carpentry, reflecting societal roles.
- Government-imposed financial guardians restrict the Osage's spending, viewing them as 'incompetent.’
Press Representation and External Views
- Media coverage misrepresents the Osage, labeling them as irresponsible spendthrifts, neglecting their financial acumen and community support.
- Following tragedies, like the explosion that killed Bill and Rita Smith, the community’s reality is juxtaposed with outsider perceptions of extravagance.
Ongoing Challenges and Health Concerns
- The Reign of Terror affects Mollie significantly, deteriorating her health and leading to worsened diabetes; she stops attending church.
- The continuous threat of murder casts a shadow over the Osage community, compelling them to adapt to survival tactics, including using electric lights for protection against aggressors.
Injustice and Exploitation
- The Osage community faces numerous injustices, including targeted robberies, exploitative marriages, and unfair pricing practices, but retains resilience amid challenges.
- Community responses to wealth and violence highlight broader societal issues concerning race, power, and justice.
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Description
Test your knowledge on key concepts from Part 1 of 'Killers of the Flower Moon'. This flashcard set covers important figures and themes that reflect the Osage Nation's wealth and cultural beliefs. Perfect for anyone studying this gripping historical narrative.
