Journey to the Sky: A History of the Alabama and Coushatta Indians of Texas (1981)

Duration: 53:44:00

Year Published: 1981

Sound: sound

Description: “Journey to the Sky” is a 1981 television documentary directed by Paul Yeager that tells the story of the Alabama and Koasati peoples. It was produced for and originally broadcast on KUHT, Houston’s PBS affiliate.Focusing on the experiences of the Native American tribes from their settlement in what is now Alabama to the modern day, the film discusses how European and American colonialism led to a loss of both land and customs. It also describes the ongoing struggle for federal recognition, resources, and autonomy. The film pairs the historical narrative with tribal legends as told by Chief Fulton Battise.