Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford cover image

Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford

Oil and Blood: The Osage Murders

Oct 20, 2023
In this episode, Tim Harford tells the chilling story of the Osage Murders, where members of the Osage Nation were targeted for their newfound wealth from oil reserves. The investigation by lawman Tom White uncovers a vicious plot that leads to destruction and suspicion. The aftermath of the convictions and present-day struggles of the Osage Nation are also explored, highlighting the lasting impact of the murders. This cautionary tale is the basis for the film directed by Martin Scorsese, starring Robert DeNiro and Leonardo DiCaprio.
41:25

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The discovery of valuable resources like oil often breeds corruption, violence, and exploitation, as seen in the Osage's experience.
  • The legacy of the Osage murders highlights the ongoing legal battles and the need for justice and reparations.

Deep dives

The Plight of the Osage Nation

The Osage Nation, once a powerful Native American tribe, was pushed into buying land that was unsuitable for cultivation. By fortunate accident, it was discovered that the land held vast reserves of oil. As the oil flowed, the Osage tribe became unimaginably wealthy. However, this newfound wealth brought with it a host of troubles. Guardianship laws were used to exploit and steal from the Osage people. Several members of an Osage family, including sisters Minnie and Anna, were murdered, likely for their oil wealth. The investigation into these crimes was filled with corruption and cover-ups, but eventually, a former Texas Ranger named Tom White and the Bureau of Investigation uncovered the truth behind the murders.

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