Where did the idea of native americans shedding a tear when they see litter being dropped in america come from

Question

I saw dave chappelle just make a joke about it, and i saw a reference to it on the simpsons and also on family guy

Answer 1

from an old commercial featuring "Iron Eyes" Cody- an old American Indian gentleman in the 70's

Answer 2

In the 70's, there were commercials that showed bad pollution and littering caused by people. The Native American shedding the tear was there to show how sad he was that what used to be his people's land was being trashed and nobody cared to take care of it and keep it clean.

Answer 3

This anti-litter commercial came out in the late 70's early 80's. Whoever thought of it was a genius, not a word was spoken and it got to the point. It is considered on of the best ads ever made.

Answer 4

It came from an old commerical series on littering featuring "Chief Ironeyes Cody" and when ever he saw litter on the road way or where ever they filmed, He would turn and face the camera with a tear running down his face usually from the right eye. oh yeah it was void of sound.

Answer 5

A lot of people make fun of the commercial, but it was very effective in conveying the message, which was: These native Americans, who respected the land, were here first. And we are systematically desecrating that which they held sacred.

It was made in the seventies and is maybe a bit dated now, but it is sad that we now scoff at it. We are a wretched people, who, in spite of the destruction we have caused, have learned nothing!

Answer 6

I would have said that the "Red Indian cried" as he saw his country being destroyed, but I guess that is no longer politically correct. What do kids play now days - Gay 'Herd managers' vs 'Native Americans'

Answer 7

A TV ad exec.