"The very use of the word savage, as it is applied in its general sense, I am inclined to believe is an abuse of the word, and the people to whom it is applied"

George Catlin's quote talks to the misuse of the word "savage" to describe Indigenous peoples. He is recommending that the use of the word in its basic sense is an abuse of language and of the people to whom it is applied. Catlin is most likely referring to the method which the term "savage" has been utilized to dehumanize Indigenous peoples and to validate the mistreatment of them. He is recommending that the term is an incorrect and unfair description of Indigenous peoples, and that it should not be used in its basic sense. Catlin's quote is a crucial pointer of the power of language and how it can be utilized to oppress and marginalize people. It is also a reminder of the need to be conscious of the language we use and to be considerate of the people to whom it is applied.