0:00:00 > 0:00:00- 888
0:00:00 > 0:00:02- 888- - 888
0:00:04 > 0:00:06- My name is Iolo Williams.
0:00:06 > 0:00:09- I'm on a journey - across North America...
0:00:09 > 0:00:12- ..to live with some - of the indigenous nations.
0:00:12 > 0:00:14- From the Navajo to the Cherokee...
0:00:14 > 0:00:19- ..from the Wild West - to the big mountains of the north...
0:00:19 > 0:00:24- ..these are the people who travelled - this incredible continent.
0:00:24 > 0:00:27- I am here - to learn about these people...
0:00:27 > 0:00:31- ..their culture, language, - spiritual beliefs...
0:00:31 > 0:00:34- ..and their harmony with nature.
0:00:34 > 0:00:38- I want to know what we can learn - from this unique way of life.
0:00:38 > 0:00:41- Join me on a journey of discovery...
0:00:42 > 0:00:46- ..across one of the world's - most striking continents.
0:01:05 > 0:01:10- I've always wanted to see - the land of the Westerns.
0:01:10 > 0:01:14- At last, I've reached Monument - Valley. Look at this place!
0:01:14 > 0:01:17- Have you seen the film Stagecoach - with John Wayne?
0:01:17 > 0:01:19- This is where it was filmed.
0:01:19 > 0:01:23- I'm sure this is a familiar view - to us all. And what a view!
0:01:23 > 0:01:28- This is the iconic land - of the Navajo Nation.
0:01:28 > 0:01:32- But like the land, - the tribe has eroded.
0:01:34 > 0:01:39- Very few Navajo people are left - in their sacred valley today.
0:01:45 > 0:01:50- It is now a land for tourists. - But what is the story of the Navajo?
0:01:50 > 0:01:53- I am on a journey to find out...
0:01:54 > 0:01:57- ..if their ancient way - of life still exists today.
0:01:59 > 0:02:03- Along the way, I hear about the past - from some true Navajo people.
0:02:04 > 0:02:07- I learn more about - their traditions and methods.
0:02:07 > 0:02:11- And I see what kind of future - lies ahead for the nation...
0:02:12 > 0:02:15- ..under the influence - of modern America.
0:02:15 > 0:02:18- The Navajo have always lived - in the American West...- - Wedi rhoi American West fan hyn acho
0:02:19 > 0:02:22- ..across a vast area that lies - between four sacred mountains.
0:02:23 > 0:02:26- They're famously known - as a spiritual nation...
0:02:26 > 0:02:28- ..living in harmony with nature.
0:02:28 > 0:02:33- As craftsmen, hunters and soldiers, - they've developed a unique identity.
0:02:34 > 0:02:39- For obvious reasons, - this place is called Window Rock.
0:02:39 > 0:02:45- This is where senior people, - such as tribal chiefs...
0:02:45 > 0:02:49- ..would meet - to take important decisions.
0:02:49 > 0:02:52- Back then, there was a well - located just behind me.
0:02:52 > 0:02:55- They would spend days here - discussing issues...
0:02:56 > 0:02:59- ..before leaving and taking - the new rules back to their tribes.
0:03:00 > 0:03:04- What is interesting is that the - town of Window Rock down there...
0:03:05 > 0:03:07- ..has developed - around this sacred place.
0:03:08 > 0:03:11- The Navajo Nation Government - is now here too.
0:03:11 > 0:03:16- Even though it's been hundreds of - years since the tribes met here...
0:03:16 > 0:03:18- ..nothing has really changed.
0:03:18 > 0:03:23- Despite being a part of the USA, - they are an independent nation...
0:03:24 > 0:03:26- ..living on shared land - or reservation.
0:03:26 > 0:03:31- They have their own language, - government and laws.
0:03:32 > 0:03:36- But, as in Wales, there's a strong - Anglo-American influence here.
0:03:54 > 0:03:58- I'm walking through a fairly new - housing estate here in Window Rock.
0:03:58 > 0:04:02- It could be any old - housing estate...
0:04:02 > 0:04:05- ..in Mississippi, Alabama - or Carolina.
0:04:06 > 0:04:09- But it is the Navajo people - who live in these houses.
0:04:10 > 0:04:13- They have clearly given up - on their old traditions.
0:04:13 > 0:04:17- They have flashy cars, - satellite TV...
0:04:17 > 0:04:20- ..and there are American flags - all around.
0:04:20 > 0:04:24- It's as if the USA has swallowed up - the Navajo Nation...
0:04:24 > 0:04:26- ..in this small part of the world.
0:04:38 > 0:04:42- Next to the mall, - I come across a small market.
0:04:42 > 0:04:46- As I wander around, not a word of - the Navajo language can be heard.
0:04:47 > 0:04:48- I ask a stall owner...
0:04:49 > 0:04:53- ..about what the future holds - for the language and culture.
0:04:53 > 0:04:54- I see them dying out.
0:04:54 > 0:04:55- I see them dying out.- - You do, genuinely?
0:04:55 > 0:04:58- There's a lot of influences - around us.
0:04:58 > 0:05:02- There's a new world out there - that comes into the reservation...
0:05:02 > 0:05:07- ..introducing us to a lot of TV, - radio and music.
0:05:07 > 0:05:09- A lot of the kids - are going that way.
0:05:09 > 0:05:13- They're not really practising - their language or traditions.
0:05:13 > 0:05:15- It's been lost.
0:05:15 > 0:05:19- Can you see a place in the modern - world for your traditions?
0:05:19 > 0:05:21- In today's world? I don't.
0:05:22 > 0:05:24- It's going to be lost.
0:05:24 > 0:05:28- The modern tradition is just here - on this reservation.
0:05:28 > 0:05:31- If you look around you, - there's a lot of modern influences.
0:05:32 > 0:05:35- It's destroying our culture, - traditions and language.
0:05:35 > 0:05:38- That's very sad. - You've depressed me now.
0:05:38 > 0:05:41- I'm going to have to have a drink - just to cheer me up.
0:05:42 > 0:05:45- It's very sad.
0:05:45 > 0:05:50- Language is an important part - of a person.
0:05:50 > 0:05:54- It tells people who you are.
0:05:54 > 0:05:59- I'm a Welsh-speaking Welshman, - and I'm very proud of that.
0:05:59 > 0:06:02- The language helps to make me - the person that I am.
0:06:02 > 0:06:08- He told me how he can't - learn some of the old songs...
0:06:08 > 0:06:13- ..because he doesn't recognize - the words and the language.
0:06:13 > 0:06:16- He's missing out on a lot - of the culture because of that.
0:06:20 > 0:06:23- In my quest to hear - the spoken language...
0:06:23 > 0:06:26- ..I leave the city - for the countryside.
0:06:27 > 0:06:30- The land of the Navajo - is three times the size of Wales.
0:06:30 > 0:06:32- But it was even larger...
0:06:32 > 0:06:35- ..before the white man came - here five centuries ago.
0:06:38 > 0:06:42- The Navajo were an obstruction - to the white man's plans...
0:06:42 > 0:06:46- ..to occupy new land - and excavate minerals.
0:06:46 > 0:06:51- In 1864, through the might - of the rifle and the sword...
0:06:51 > 0:06:55- ..the Navajo were - rounded up like sheep...
0:06:55 > 0:06:58- ..and forced to give up their land.
0:06:58 > 0:07:00- Thousands were killed - on a journey...
0:07:01 > 0:07:03- ..which became known - as The Long Walk.
0:07:10 > 0:07:14- The landscape - has now altered totally.
0:07:14 > 0:07:19- We've moved away from woodland - to desert-like land.
0:07:19 > 0:07:21- It's extremely dry.
0:07:21 > 0:07:23- Look at that mountain ridge.
0:07:24 > 0:07:26- It's incredibly striking.
0:07:28 > 0:07:30- Further into the reservation...
0:07:30 > 0:07:32- ..along a dusty road - and in scorching heat...
0:07:33 > 0:07:34- ..I stop at a small ranch...
0:07:34 > 0:07:37- ..where an old shepherd - is waiting for my visit.
0:07:37 > 0:07:40- Hi, Robert. I'm Iolo. - It's very nice to meet you.
0:07:40 > 0:07:43- This is Robert Wauneka.
0:07:43 > 0:07:46- His farm reminds me of a scene - from an old Western film.
0:07:47 > 0:07:51- Barren land, old rickety huts, - evidence of bullet shots...
0:07:52 > 0:07:57- ..and an old, wise shepherd - sharing his world with his flock.
0:07:57 > 0:08:02- Sheep are central to the Navajo.
0:08:03 > 0:08:08- We were nomadic people - before they came here.
0:08:09 > 0:08:15- They allow us to stay in one place. - They give us food and clothes.
0:08:15 > 0:08:21- They are sacred animals.
0:08:22 > 0:08:23- You're going to lasso them, are you?
0:08:23 > 0:08:25- You're going to lasso them, are you?- - Yes, I'm going to have to!
0:08:26 > 0:08:27- They're fast!
0:08:29 > 0:08:30- You can use this one.
0:08:30 > 0:08:33- I can't lasso, so it's pointless. - But I'll have a go!
0:08:33 > 0:08:34- You're not a cowboy!
0:08:34 > 0:08:36- You're not a cowboy!- - I'm not a cowboy, no.
0:08:36 > 0:08:39- I'll watch you in action first - to see how it works.
0:08:39 > 0:08:42- The Navajo have been lassoing - for centuries...
0:08:43 > 0:08:45- ..to hunt and keep horses.
0:08:45 > 0:08:49- I have no idea - what I'm meant to do with this.
0:08:49 > 0:08:53- This will be fun. I'm holding - it the wrong way for a start!
0:08:53 > 0:08:56- I must throw this - around their necks to catch them.
0:08:56 > 0:08:58- I'll watch him do it first.
0:09:00 > 0:09:03- He's caught one with the lasso. - Fair play.
0:09:08 > 0:09:11- Crikey, fair play.
0:09:16 > 0:09:21- Give me a fast lesson - on the use of the lasso!
0:09:21 > 0:09:25- What do you do? - Do you just wind it above your head?
0:09:26 > 0:09:27- Yeah.
0:09:30 > 0:09:33- I don't think he's keen - on giving me a lesson.
0:09:33 > 0:09:36- He wants to get on with the work - of catching the lambs.
0:09:36 > 0:09:38- He clearly has a lot of work to do.
0:09:39 > 0:09:40- I'm determined to have a go!
0:09:41 > 0:09:41- There's another one over there.
0:09:41 > 0:09:43- There's another one over there.- - Which one? This one?
0:09:43 > 0:09:48- Sheep were first brought to America - and the Navajo by Spanish settlers.
0:09:49 > 0:09:51- Crikey, he's fantastic.
0:09:53 > 0:09:55- I'm going to have a go. - Watch this!
0:09:56 > 0:09:59- Sheep totally changed - the Navajo way of life...
0:09:59 > 0:10:02- ..from nomadic hunters to shepherds.
0:10:03 > 0:10:06- I'm not a lasso man! - I'd rather run after them!
0:10:07 > 0:10:07- Last one?
0:10:07 > 0:10:08- Last one?- - Yes, last one.
0:10:13 > 0:10:18- It's quite an experience spending - time with a traditional Navajo.
0:10:19 > 0:10:20- Around here?
0:10:20 > 0:10:21- Around here?- - Yes.
0:10:25 > 0:10:28- But the old man's words are sad.
0:10:30 > 0:10:35- I foresee that fewer and fewer - young Navajo will continue to farm.
0:10:36 > 0:10:40- Children are too fat and lazy now. - They prefer to watch TV.
0:10:41 > 0:10:45- Today, everyone learns English.
0:10:46 > 0:10:50- Without language and traditions, - we're just Americans.
0:10:51 > 0:10:53- Soon, it's time for the wise man...
0:10:53 > 0:10:57- ..to go over the mountain - to gather his flock.
0:10:58 > 0:11:02- Thank you very much. Good luck. - Take care. God bless.
0:11:06 > 0:11:09- He's quite a character!
0:11:09 > 0:11:12- He's off now - with his dogs following behind.
0:11:12 > 0:11:17- He'll be walking all day long and - will return around 7.00pm or 8.00pm.
0:11:17 > 0:11:20- He'll do the same again tomorrow, - the next day and the next.
0:11:20 > 0:11:22- Hard work.
0:11:22 > 0:11:26- I feel quite sad - after speaking to Robert.
0:11:27 > 0:11:31- I was quite hopeful after - reading the facts and figures.
0:11:31 > 0:11:35- There are more children speaking - the language now than before.
0:11:36 > 0:11:38- There's been a revival of sorts.
0:11:38 > 0:11:41- But then, it's similar - to Wales and its language.
0:11:41 > 0:11:46- Our figures at home show - that the language is on the rise.
0:11:46 > 0:11:50- If, like me, you live in - a traditionally Welsh area...
0:11:50 > 0:11:54- ..where the language and culture are - disappearing, it's heartbreaking.
0:11:55 > 0:11:57- Robert clearly feels the same.
0:11:57 > 0:12:00- Even though children are taught - the language at school...
0:12:01 > 0:12:02- ..they don't speak it at home.
0:12:03 > 0:12:07- They don't remember the old - traditions and the way of life.
0:12:07 > 0:12:11- It's like meeting - the last of his kind.
0:12:11 > 0:12:14- An old man who's still farming - and shepherding.
0:12:14 > 0:12:20- If I came back in 25 years, - there might be no-one here.
0:12:21 > 0:12:25- It's very sad. Not very positive.
0:12:29 > 0:12:29- 888
0:12:29 > 0:12:31- 888- - 888
0:12:34 > 0:12:37- I'm going to a local school - this morning...
0:12:37 > 0:12:42- ..where education is taught - through the Navajo language.
0:12:42 > 0:12:45- The only problem is, - the school starts at 7.30am!
0:12:49 > 0:12:52- I want to find out what the future - holds for the language.
0:12:53 > 0:12:57- Up until now, I've only heard - the old shepherd speaking Navajo.
0:12:57 > 0:13:01- I visit the school to learn more - about the situation.
0:13:03 > 0:13:05- KNOCK ON DOOR
0:13:06 > 0:13:08- THEY SPEAK NAVAJO
0:13:15 > 0:13:18- Even though there is an English - school in the town...
0:13:19 > 0:13:21- ..this is a monolingual - Navajo school.
0:13:21 > 0:13:25- The aim is to immerse the children - in their own language and culture...
0:13:25 > 0:13:29- ..as we do in our - Welsh-language schools in Wales.
0:13:30 > 0:13:34- They're having a lesson on spring...
0:13:34 > 0:13:38- ..and how everything awakens.
0:13:38 > 0:13:43- How sheep give birth to lambs, - and horses give birth to foals.
0:13:43 > 0:13:47- They're learning the names - of all the animals.
0:13:47 > 0:13:53- For me, they're long, - complicated names.
0:13:53 > 0:13:56- I'm sure if I gave them a Welsh - lesson, they'd think the same.
0:14:01 > 0:14:06- I get up to explain - to the children who I am.
0:14:06 > 0:14:09- Without speaking their language, - that's not an easy task.
0:14:10 > 0:14:13- It's the school policy - not to use a word of English...
0:14:13 > 0:14:16- ..to teach the Navajo language.
0:14:16 > 0:14:18- I draw pictures.
0:14:18 > 0:14:22- I'm drawing a picture of a cow.
0:14:26 > 0:14:30- In Welsh...
0:14:35 > 0:14:37- Right, a Welsh lesson.
0:14:39 > 0:14:40- "Buwch".
0:14:40 > 0:14:41- "Buwch".- - "Buwch."
0:14:42 > 0:14:44- Well done.
0:14:44 > 0:14:46- In the Dine language?
0:14:46 > 0:14:49- "Beegash ii."
0:14:55 > 0:14:58- B, E, E...
0:14:58 > 0:15:03- ..G, A, S, H, I, I.
0:15:04 > 0:15:06- "Beegash ii." Is that right?
0:15:06 > 0:15:07- "Beegash ii." Is that right?- - Yes, "Beegash ii."
0:15:08 > 0:15:10- Eagles. In Welsh, "Eryr."
0:15:11 > 0:15:12- "Eryr."
0:15:13 > 0:15:14- "Eryr." In Dine?
0:15:14 > 0:15:17- "Eryr." In Dine?- - "Atsa."
0:15:18 > 0:15:19- "Atsa."
0:15:21 > 0:15:26- I'm going to try and explain to them - that I'm a bird expert in Wales.
0:15:26 > 0:15:28- How on earth am I going to do that?
0:15:28 > 0:15:30- What's a bird?
0:15:37 > 0:15:40- "Hasttiin tsidii."
0:15:41 > 0:15:42- Tsidii is a bird.
0:15:42 > 0:15:43- Tsidii is a bird.- - Yes, bird man.
0:15:45 > 0:15:49- "Hastiin tsidii."
0:15:55 > 0:15:56- Bird man.
0:15:56 > 0:15:59- "Hastiin tsidii."
0:16:01 > 0:16:04- I don't think they understand me!
0:16:06 > 0:16:07- Thank you.
0:16:07 > 0:16:08- Thank you.- - Thank you.
0:16:11 > 0:16:14- The next lesson isn't such fun.
0:16:15 > 0:16:19- This is a history - and language lesson.
0:16:19 > 0:16:24- They're all working on different - personal projects.
0:16:24 > 0:16:30- It's Language Week next week, - and they'll have to present these.
0:16:30 > 0:16:32- I'm going to go and meet Shaheen.
0:16:33 > 0:16:36- Her project discusses how - her grandfather...
0:16:36 > 0:16:38- ..was treated by the white man.
0:16:38 > 0:16:43- Grandad remembers - seeing his sisters screaming...
0:16:44 > 0:16:47- ..as the white men - cut off their hair.
0:16:49 > 0:16:52- The native children were captured - by the American government...
0:16:53 > 0:16:56- ..and forced - to live in boarding schools.
0:16:56 > 0:16:58- Far away from their families...
0:16:59 > 0:17:03- ..their way of life, their beliefs - and language were destroyed.
0:17:03 > 0:17:08- We, native Americans, - have suffered terribly...
0:17:10 > 0:17:15- ..so I'm very proud - that we're saving the language.
0:17:18 > 0:17:22- These people have been persecuted by - the white man until very recently.
0:17:22 > 0:17:25- But they've shown forgiveness. - That's incredible.
0:17:25 > 0:17:29- From my experience, they're warm, - friendly and welcoming people.
0:17:30 > 0:17:31- They're different from me.
0:17:31 > 0:17:35- If I lived here, I'd want to - go up that mountain with a gun...
0:17:36 > 0:17:38- ..and shoot any white man - who came near.
0:17:39 > 0:17:42- That's what I'd feel if my family - had suffered like theirs.
0:17:43 > 0:17:47- The children learn that the future - of the language is under threat...
0:17:48 > 0:17:50- ..as they study - the decline of speakers...
0:17:50 > 0:17:52- ..in their own family history.
0:17:54 > 0:17:59- Three generations ago, - almost everybody was fluent.
0:18:00 > 0:18:05- But as we see from this family tree, - only a few speak the language now.
0:18:06 > 0:18:11- It only takes one generation - to lose the language.
0:18:12 > 0:18:16- Our hope is that everyone will be - fluent again in seven generations.
0:18:18 > 0:18:21- It's terrifying to think - of the responsibility...
0:18:21 > 0:18:23- ..that lies - with these young children.
0:18:24 > 0:18:28- They could possibly be the last - generation of fluent Navajos.
0:18:29 > 0:18:35- The school is like an island in - a sea of Anglo-American influences.
0:18:38 > 0:18:42- Does anybody here go home - and speak Dine as well?
0:18:42 > 0:18:43- Yes? You do?
0:18:44 > 0:18:46- You do as well?
0:18:46 > 0:18:50- If I speak to you in Welsh, - you won't understand a word.
0:18:50 > 0:18:54- It's my first language.
0:18:54 > 0:18:57- I think I understand.
0:18:57 > 0:19:00- I said, if I speak Welsh, - you won't understand me.
0:19:00 > 0:19:02- But it's my first language.
0:19:03 > 0:19:06- It's good to learn lots of different - languages. It's very good.
0:19:07 > 0:19:11- Whilst I was chatting with some of - the children, it was clear that...
0:19:11 > 0:19:14- ..wherever you are in the world, - children will be children.
0:19:15 > 0:19:18- I tried asking them about - what it's like to be a Navajo...
0:19:18 > 0:19:24- ..but they wanted to talk about - sports, girls and food.
0:19:24 > 0:19:26- They asked me about the types - of food we eat.
0:19:27 > 0:19:29- They asked me - if I liked rock 'n' roll...
0:19:29 > 0:19:34- ..and what kind of sports I enjoy - - football or basketball.
0:19:34 > 0:19:37- That's how children are - all over the world.
0:19:37 > 0:19:39- They are no different here.
0:19:40 > 0:19:42- DRUMBEAT
0:19:46 > 0:19:48- As a Welsh-speaking Welshman...
0:19:48 > 0:19:51- ..the story about - a decline in the language...
0:19:51 > 0:19:53- ..sends an all too familiar - shiver down my spine.
0:19:54 > 0:19:56- But there's always hope - for the future.
0:19:57 > 0:20:01- They're on the right path, - there's no doubt about that.
0:20:01 > 0:20:05- After hearing all the sad stories - from the older generations...
0:20:05 > 0:20:09- ..about how the language - is gradually dying out...
0:20:09 > 0:20:14- ..it's great to come here to speak - to children and their parents...
0:20:14 > 0:20:17- ..and hear that there is a revival.
0:20:17 > 0:20:20- Children do speak Dine at home.
0:20:20 > 0:20:24- It's lifted my spirits after - a depressing period out here.
0:20:29 > 0:20:32- The language is one thing. - What about the old way of life?
0:20:33 > 0:20:36- For me, there's nothing more - important about the Navajo belief...
0:20:37 > 0:20:39- ..than their outlook on nature.
0:20:40 > 0:20:43- I climb higher - into the Rocky Mountains...
0:20:44 > 0:20:49- ..to meet two park rangers, - Larry Joe and Edison Emerson.
0:20:50 > 0:20:54- They're responsible for maintaining - a large area of the reservation.
0:20:54 > 0:20:56- This is the land of eagles - and bears.
0:20:57 > 0:21:00- But they want to show me that - they can also be hunters.
0:21:01 > 0:21:06- Come with me. I'm very excited.
0:21:06 > 0:21:10- The men are taking me hunting - with a bow and arrow.
0:21:10 > 0:21:14- Larry makes his own bow and arrows.
0:21:15 > 0:21:17- They're going to show me - how they hunt...
0:21:18 > 0:21:22- ..and all the ceremonies - that are linked with that.
0:21:22 > 0:21:25- They lead me further - into the forest.
0:21:26 > 0:21:29- Somebody's been camping here.
0:21:29 > 0:21:34- Soon, I realize that they, - like their forefathers...
0:21:34 > 0:21:37- ..are experts - at reading their habitat.
0:21:39 > 0:21:43- The men look for tracks.
0:21:43 > 0:21:47- They're silent as they walk slowly - and concentrate on looking down.
0:21:47 > 0:21:51- Their eyes are looking everywhere, - both left and right.
0:21:52 > 0:21:54- As they search for deer tracks...
0:21:54 > 0:21:58- ..Larry Joe explains how - their relationship with nature...
0:21:58 > 0:22:00- ..helps them to hunt.
0:22:01 > 0:22:07- Whilst hunting, - we ask the wind for support.
0:22:08 > 0:22:12- It leads us in the right direction - and hides our smell.
0:22:15 > 0:22:19- Paying attention to the wind - is second nature to us, the Dine.
0:22:23 > 0:22:27- Suddenly, Larry Joe - sees traces of another hunter.
0:22:33 > 0:22:37- This is a sacred spot. - Any hunter would recognize it.
0:22:40 > 0:22:44- They are always - underneath pine trees.
0:22:45 > 0:22:49- The hunter killed a deer - and butchered it in the same spot.
0:22:49 > 0:22:53- Following the Navajo ritual, - the intestines have been buried...
0:22:53 > 0:22:57- ..and the windpipe and skull - have been placed pointing east.
0:22:58 > 0:23:04- The belief is that - the animal is still alive...
0:23:05 > 0:23:08- ..and that when the hunter - returns in a year's time...
0:23:08 > 0:23:10- ..when this one is a year old...
0:23:11 > 0:23:14- ..there will be another - two-year-old animal here.
0:23:14 > 0:23:16- He can then hunt that.
0:23:16 > 0:23:17- It's a life cycle.
0:23:18 > 0:23:22- The animal goes back into the earth - and is reincarnated.
0:23:22 > 0:23:26- It shows such a lot of respect.
0:23:33 > 0:23:36- How would a father - pass on to his son...
0:23:36 > 0:23:40- ..the knowledge of - how to use a bow and arrow?
0:23:41 > 0:23:47- A father teaches his son - how to hunt as soon as he can walk.
0:23:49 > 0:23:56- He then makes him an arrow, - just one arrow...
0:23:57 > 0:24:04- ..to teach his son the importance - of prudence and to avoid waste.
0:24:05 > 0:24:07- Whilst frequently - roaming the land...
0:24:08 > 0:24:11- ..Larry Joe - collects feathers and wood...
0:24:11 > 0:24:14- ..to use as raw materials - for his weapons.
0:24:14 > 0:24:18- To him, the most important - and spiritual part of the bow...
0:24:18 > 0:24:23- ..is the string made from - the muscle of a mountain lion.
0:24:27 > 0:24:30- A hunter's bow is different.
0:24:31 > 0:24:36- It can only be touched by a man.
0:24:37 > 0:24:42- Hunters used to sleep with the bow - next to them every night.
0:24:44 > 0:24:47- On the eve of battle, the string - struck a note without anyone near.
0:24:49 > 0:24:54- It signalled that the bow - was eager to taste blood.
0:24:55 > 0:24:58- Larry, would you mind if I - had a go aiming at a target?
0:24:58 > 0:25:00- Yes, I'll let you shoot it.
0:25:01 > 0:25:04- This is a 65lbs draw weight - at full draw.
0:25:07 > 0:25:09- What about the small tree - right here?
0:25:09 > 0:25:12- There's something black - right beneath it.
0:25:12 > 0:25:15- I can't even see that - let alone hit it!
0:25:15 > 0:25:20- Put it on like this one here, - then hit the black thing.
0:25:22 > 0:25:27- It goes quickly! - I can see how it can kill deer.
0:25:29 > 0:25:31- That was a little bit over.
0:25:34 > 0:25:37- He was aiming for - this little thing here...
0:25:37 > 0:25:41- ..and both arrows are within two - feet - half a metre to a metre.
0:25:42 > 0:25:44- Look how far they've gone - into the earth.
0:25:44 > 0:25:47- Both of them.
0:25:48 > 0:25:50- That's how deep - they went into the earth.
0:25:50 > 0:25:54- If the arrows could kill a deer, - they could easily kill a man.
0:25:54 > 0:25:57- Right, the moment - you've all been waiting for.
0:25:57 > 0:25:59- I'm going to have a go.
0:26:00 > 0:26:01- Like this.
0:26:01 > 0:26:02- Like this.- - OK.
0:26:03 > 0:26:06- Will you put your arrow on?
0:26:11 > 0:26:13- Right, it's ready.
0:26:13 > 0:26:17- Don't look for a moment - in case I make a fool of myself.
0:26:17 > 0:26:19- Put it in like so.
0:26:20 > 0:26:22- Pull it back.
0:26:23 > 0:26:26- The target is over there.
0:26:29 > 0:26:31- Well?
0:26:31 > 0:26:34- Good. You look as if - you've done it before.
0:26:34 > 0:26:38- If it were a deer, I'd have struck - its bottom, but it would've run off!
0:26:39 > 0:26:43- If it was a deer, I'd have struck - its bottom, and it would've run off!
0:26:44 > 0:26:48- I'm still a little boy at heart.
0:26:48 > 0:26:51- That was the highlight - of the trip for me so far.
0:26:51 > 0:26:55- I can't believe that I held - a Navajo bow and arrow...
0:26:55 > 0:26:59- ..identical to that which - his forefathers would have held.
0:26:59 > 0:27:03- And then to shoot it - without making fool of myself.
0:27:03 > 0:27:05- That was important to me.
0:27:05 > 0:27:09- Self-respect is - very important to the Navajo.
0:27:09 > 0:27:12- To be in their company - is extraordinary.
0:27:12 > 0:27:15- They have the knowledge, - but it's more than that.
0:27:18 > 0:27:20- Even I could have hit that one!
0:27:26 > 0:27:30- There's something - very spiritual about them.
0:27:30 > 0:27:35- When you're in their company, - it takes hold of you as well.
0:27:36 > 0:27:38- I'm not usually a spiritual man.
0:27:38 > 0:27:41- But that's how I've felt today.
0:27:49 > 0:27:51- As the day draws to an end...
0:27:51 > 0:27:56- ..the place is full of wildlife - daring to emerge out of the shadows.
0:27:56 > 0:28:00- There to wave goodbye are the deer.
0:28:16 > 0:28:21- Under the moonlight, I am taught - one last lesson by Larry Joe.
0:28:21 > 0:28:25- I realize that not only - do the Navajo live with nature...
0:28:25 > 0:28:28- ..but that they are part of it.
0:28:31 > 0:28:35- Centuries ago, people and animals - lived side by side.
0:28:36 > 0:28:42- Now, animals have learned to stay - away and are fearful of man.
0:28:43 > 0:28:46- People don't - understand nature any more.
0:28:51 > 0:28:54- Above everything else...
0:28:54 > 0:28:59- ..I've learned that the history - of the language and culture here...
0:28:59 > 0:29:03- ..is very similar - to our cultural history.
0:29:04 > 0:29:10- But their close connection - with nature still exists today.
0:29:10 > 0:29:12- We've lost that.
0:29:12 > 0:29:16- I think we lost that centuries ago.
0:29:16 > 0:29:22- It's a pity. It's a pity that we - haven't fought to get that back.
0:29:28 > 0:29:28- 888
0:29:28 > 0:29:30- 888- - 888
0:29:36 > 0:29:39- I continue my journey - on the trail of the Navajo...
0:29:40 > 0:29:43- ..to find out if their - traditional way of life...
0:29:43 > 0:29:45- ..still exists in modern America.
0:29:46 > 0:29:49- Believe it or not, - this is a small breakfast.
0:29:50 > 0:29:54- They eat meals like this for - breakfast, lunch and dinner.
0:29:54 > 0:29:56- It's another example - of how the Navajo...
0:29:57 > 0:30:00- ..have bought into - the American way of life.
0:30:00 > 0:30:02- You can't blame them.
0:30:02 > 0:30:07- They're surrounded - by American influences.
0:30:11 > 0:30:14- This is the tourist part - of Canyon de Chelly.
0:30:17 > 0:30:20- But I leave town to meet a family...
0:30:20 > 0:30:24- ..who live far away from the - influences of the modern world.
0:30:28 > 0:30:30- Good to see you.
0:30:31 > 0:30:31- Roger, how are you?
0:30:31 > 0:30:33- Roger, how are you?- - Good.
0:30:33 > 0:30:36- Good to see you. Hello, - are you going to shake my hand?
0:30:36 > 0:30:38- I'm pleased to see a simple farm...
0:30:38 > 0:30:42- ..with a traditional hogan - as the main building.
0:30:42 > 0:30:44- This is the Milford family.
0:30:44 > 0:30:48- The family has lived - on this land for centuries.
0:30:48 > 0:30:52- I am introduced to - the 89-year-old great-grandmother.
0:30:53 > 0:30:55- She's the head of the five - generations living here.
0:30:56 > 0:31:01- There are a lot of them, - aren't there!
0:31:02 > 0:31:06- Her son translates for me. - She's only ever spoken Navajo.
0:31:06 > 0:31:11- She's asking why are you doing this?
0:31:15 > 0:31:19- I go on to explain my journey.
0:31:19 > 0:31:23- She invites me to stay - with the family for a few days.
0:31:24 > 0:31:26- Wow, that was an experience.
0:31:27 > 0:31:29- She's 89 years of age.
0:31:29 > 0:31:31- When talking to her...
0:31:32 > 0:31:36- ..you feel as though you're - moving one big step closer...
0:31:36 > 0:31:41- ..to the old Navajo and - their traditional way of life.
0:31:41 > 0:31:46- She's told me a few stories - about her childhood.
0:31:46 > 0:31:51- She was clearly very sharp and - wanted to know more about Wales.
0:31:51 > 0:31:53- An incredible woman.
0:31:57 > 0:32:00- In addition to the - grandmother's hogan...
0:32:00 > 0:32:03- ..there are another two houses - where the extended family lives.
0:32:04 > 0:32:08- I spend a few hours learning about - baking, spinning and other crafts.
0:32:12 > 0:32:15- You'll have to run to get me!
0:32:17 > 0:32:22- Look at this! It was sunny when - I arrived. It's snowing now.
0:32:22 > 0:32:24- And it's the end of April!
0:32:33 > 0:32:38- As snow fell, the family was - eager to show me an old sack.
0:32:39 > 0:32:42- To them, it's a very sacred sack.
0:32:42 > 0:32:45- Tell me the story behind this sack.
0:32:46 > 0:32:50- This is my father's sack.
0:32:51 > 0:32:58- He was a 'Medicine Man' and used - the sack for healing ceremonies.
0:33:01 > 0:33:07- It takes a lifetime - to learn how to be a 'Medicine Man'.
0:33:10 > 0:33:14- Only a traditional doctor is allowed - to open a sack of this kind.
0:33:14 > 0:33:18- Roger's mother explains - that the sack's secrets...
0:33:18 > 0:33:21- ..disappeared into the grave - with her husband.
0:33:21 > 0:33:25- Do you regret that all this - knowledge has been lost?
0:33:27 > 0:33:30- It's heartbreaking to - see the sack not being used.
0:33:31 > 0:33:34- It's sad that nobody - in the family understands it.
0:33:36 > 0:33:39- I feel guilty for not learning - the traditional methods.
0:33:41 > 0:33:46- To think that we can't - heal people any more...
0:34:12 > 0:34:14- Christmas carols!
0:34:17 > 0:34:20- How the weather has changed!
0:34:20 > 0:34:26- It's bitterly cold now - and it's snowing relentlessly.
0:34:29 > 0:34:33- This is how the Navajo live, - so this is how I live!
0:34:36 > 0:34:39- TRADITIONAL NAVAJO SINGING
0:34:41 > 0:34:45- Despite having lost part - of their identity...
0:34:45 > 0:34:49- ..this is the closest I have come - to the true spirit of the Navajo.
0:34:52 > 0:34:53- 888
0:34:53 > 0:34:55- 888- - 888
0:34:58 > 0:35:01- I'm living with the Navajo.
0:35:01 > 0:35:04- It's another glorious morning - on the farm...
0:35:04 > 0:35:08- ..that's far away from the hustle - and bustle of the modern world.
0:35:16 > 0:35:20- It's an exciting day today.
0:35:20 > 0:35:23- We're going on horseback - to the edge of the canyon...
0:35:24 > 0:35:27- ..then going down to see - some of the old buildings.
0:35:27 > 0:35:31- Before that, they will slaughter - a sheep in the traditional way.
0:35:31 > 0:35:36- Then, when we return tonight, - we will all have a big feast.
0:35:47 > 0:35:49- It's for you.
0:35:50 > 0:35:52- Like yours? Brilliant!
0:35:57 > 0:35:59- They will now choose a sheep.
0:35:59 > 0:36:03- It's good to see how important the - old rituals are to the shepherds.
0:36:04 > 0:36:10- For the Dine, - the sheep is like a mother...
0:36:10 > 0:36:15- ..providing the family - with food and nutrients.
0:36:28 > 0:36:34- Our forefathers taught us...
0:36:34 > 0:36:40- ..to care for them and rear them.
0:36:54 > 0:36:59- This knowledge can only be - entirely understood...
0:36:59 > 0:37:06- ..through keeping sheep.
0:37:10 > 0:37:14- The family gathers around, and - there is an atmosphere of respect...
0:37:14 > 0:37:16- ..as the sheep's life ends.
0:37:17 > 0:37:20- This is the Navajo way.
0:37:21 > 0:37:25- This is how we were taught.
0:37:59 > 0:38:01- It's not nice to see...
0:38:01 > 0:38:05- ..but this is how they've been - slaughtering animals for centuries.
0:38:10 > 0:38:13- There's a big difference...
0:38:13 > 0:38:15- ..we pack animals into a lorry...
0:38:15 > 0:38:19- ..and then send them - to an abattoir miles away.
0:38:19 > 0:38:23- At least this sheep - has been removed from the fields...
0:38:23 > 0:38:26- ..and is slaughtered here - within no time at all.
0:38:27 > 0:38:32- It's no more cruel than - the method we use in our country.
0:38:35 > 0:38:39- It's interesting to see the sons - and all the men taking part.
0:38:39 > 0:38:44- They all learned - from a very early age...
0:38:44 > 0:38:50- ..how to slaughter the animal, how - to butcher it, which meat is best...
0:38:50 > 0:38:53- ..which parts to eat - and to keep, and so on.
0:38:53 > 0:38:57- It's good to see - this tradition being continued.
0:39:02 > 0:39:05- Ugh!
0:39:17 > 0:39:22- I enjoy this because my grandsons - share the old traditions.
0:39:23 > 0:39:27- I was taught by my forefathers.
0:39:30 > 0:39:33- Everyone proceeds - to butcher the sheep.
0:39:33 > 0:39:37- They all know exactly what to do.
0:39:46 > 0:39:50- This special part of the sheep - is a prize for the slaughterer.
0:39:51 > 0:39:56- It's the best part, the breast meat.
0:40:04 > 0:40:10- There's a unique smell - every time you open up an animal.
0:40:13 > 0:40:18- From the best meat to the - intestines - not one part is wasted.
0:40:22 > 0:40:27- We prepare and cook the intestines - before they harden.
0:40:28 > 0:40:32- They're easier to handle - whilst they're still warm.
0:40:33 > 0:40:36- This young girl is enjoying herself.
0:40:36 > 0:40:39- She wants to know what's going on.
0:40:39 > 0:40:40- This is how she learns.
0:40:41 > 0:40:42- When she's older...
0:40:42 > 0:40:46- ..I'm sure her mother will - teach her to do it properly...
0:40:46 > 0:40:48- ..as will the grandmother.
0:40:48 > 0:40:53- The children - have been brought up with death.
0:40:54 > 0:40:57- Death is a part - of an animal's life cycle.
0:40:57 > 0:41:01- There's no big taboo about it - as there is in our country.
0:41:01 > 0:41:03- I think this is a healthy thing.
0:41:03 > 0:41:07- All of us meat-eaters should see - how an animal is slaughtered.
0:41:08 > 0:41:12- SINGS IN NAVAJO
0:41:28 > 0:41:32- We're going to the Tsegi Canyon now.
0:41:32 > 0:41:34- My horse is over there.
0:41:34 > 0:41:36- I haven't had much - horse riding experience.
0:41:37 > 0:41:38- Don't laugh!
0:41:44 > 0:41:48- I feel as if I've arrived - in the real America.
0:41:48 > 0:41:52- I'm on horseback. - I feel as if I should do this.
0:41:52 > 0:41:54- There won't be any of that!
0:41:56 > 0:41:59- The Western image is complete.
0:42:00 > 0:42:03- But it's not cowboys - that Erwin is worried about.
0:42:05 > 0:42:09- I never go to the canyon - without my rifle.
0:42:10 > 0:42:14- This is the land of - the black lion... the puma.
0:42:15 > 0:42:23- It's better to be safe than sorry!
0:42:40 > 0:42:46- As we ride, I start to feel that - I've been accepted by the family.
0:42:46 > 0:42:49- They want to take me - somewhere important.
0:42:49 > 0:42:54- I'm looking forward - to finding out what's ahead.
0:43:00 > 0:43:05- This is the Tsegi Canyon, - as it is known by the natives.
0:43:07 > 0:43:11- It's no wonder that this is - a sacred place for the Navajo.
0:43:12 > 0:43:14- Measuring 26 miles in length...
0:43:14 > 0:43:17- ..and 1,000 feet in height - in some parts...
0:43:17 > 0:43:21- ..the canyon is - a very sacred place to the Navajo.
0:43:22 > 0:43:26- This is our small part - of the canyon.
0:43:28 > 0:43:31- Nobody from outside the family - has ever been here before.
0:43:49 > 0:43:51- What a place!
0:43:52 > 0:43:55- Roger just told me - on the top up there...
0:43:55 > 0:44:01- ..that we are the first people - outside the family to come here.
0:44:01 > 0:44:03- That's such a privilege.
0:44:13 > 0:44:15- At the bottom of the canyon...
0:44:15 > 0:44:19- ..Roger shows me why the place - is so close to his heart.
0:44:21 > 0:44:24- There are drawings right there.
0:44:24 > 0:44:29- This is why I've been - brought down here.
0:44:29 > 0:44:33- There are old buildings - on the rock up there.
0:44:34 > 0:44:37- There are drawings - on the wall as well.
0:44:37 > 0:44:40- That's why this place - is so sacred to the Navajo.
0:44:47 > 0:44:51- We don't know much about - how these people lived...
0:44:53 > 0:44:58- ..but we believe that our ancestors - lived here for 5,000 years.
0:45:03 > 0:45:09- Our belief prevents us from - getting any closer than this.
0:45:12 > 0:45:15- There's a unique atmosphere - to this place.
0:45:15 > 0:45:20- You can feel the ancient history - coming out from the earth...
0:45:20 > 0:45:22- ..and into your body.
0:45:22 > 0:45:24- The air is heavy.
0:45:25 > 0:45:28- We have permission to go up - and see the old buildings...
0:45:28 > 0:45:32- ..but I think that - would be disrespectful...
0:45:32 > 0:45:36- ..towards people who've been - so extremely kind to us.
0:45:36 > 0:45:38- We therefore decided not to go.
0:45:56 > 0:45:58- The gods must know we're here...
0:45:59 > 0:46:01- ..because it's started - snowing heavily.
0:46:02 > 0:46:04- So we'd better make haste!
0:46:16 > 0:46:21- I've had some fantastic days - with the Navajo.
0:46:21 > 0:46:25- I'm going to end my time here - with a big feast.
0:46:25 > 0:46:28- There are five generations - under one roof.
0:46:29 > 0:46:33- How often do you see that in Wales? - We have a lot to learn.
0:46:48 > 0:46:51- This is the way of the Navajo.
0:46:52 > 0:46:55- The whole family together - under one roof.
0:46:55 > 0:47:00- The older generations - are singing traditional songs.
0:47:05 > 0:47:08- The history of the Navajo - grew from this land.
0:47:08 > 0:47:12- It surrounds them, feeds them, - is home to them...
0:47:12 > 0:47:16- ..and is a part of their souls.
0:47:17 > 0:47:21- Moments before the feast, the family - ask us to put away our cameras...
0:47:22 > 0:47:25- ..as they would like to thank - the spirits of their ancestors.
0:47:25 > 0:47:27- Thank you very much.
0:47:27 > 0:47:30- If I had any doubts about - the existence of old beliefs...
0:47:31 > 0:47:32- ..they're long gone now.
0:47:33 > 0:47:34- CAR HOOTER
0:47:34 > 0:47:36- ALL: Bye.
0:47:38 > 0:47:43- Wow! The most amazing thing - has just happened to me.
0:47:43 > 0:47:48- I thanked them with presents and - a love spoon for the grandmother.
0:47:48 > 0:47:51- They wanted to give me - a blessing ceremony...
0:47:52 > 0:47:55- ..but asked if we could leave - our cameras outside.
0:47:55 > 0:47:58- I then went to sit inside.
0:47:58 > 0:48:04- I was given a ceremony to bless - the journey back to Wales.
0:48:04 > 0:48:10- It was very emotional. I'll never - forget my time with the Navajo.
0:48:31 > 0:48:33- S4C Subtitles by Testun Cyf.
0:48:33 > 0:48:34- .