The Story Of Ishi, The Yahi Man Who Emerged From The California Wilderness — Then Became A “Living Exhibit” In San Francisco

It is to read them alongside the conditions under which they were made.

Ishi Became Famous — But Fame Did Not Give Him Power

By the middle of his years in San Francisco, Ishi was one of the most recognizable Native people in California.

Newspapers wrote about him.

Museum visitors knew his name.

Researchers published observations.

He appeared in photographs and film.

That visibility might sound like power.

It was not.

Celebrity can increase attention without increasing control.