# The Indians — Last and First Men character guide

> The Indians in Last and First Men by Olaf Stapledon.

**Role:** minor

**Also known as:** Indians, the Indians

**First appearance:** 0001-last-and-first-men

## Who they are

Indigenous peoples of the Americas, referenced in early human history.

## In the story

### [America and China](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/last_and_first_men_se/chapters/iii-america-and-china)

The Indians are mentioned as sharing China's preference for contemplation over action, and their belief in the world as shadow.

### [The Rivals](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/last_and_first_men_se/chapters/i-the-rivals)

The Indians are noted for their inclination to seek ultimate reality behind appearances, viewing this world as a passing shadow.

### [The Conflict](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/last_and_first_men_se/chapters/ii-the-conflict)

The Indians are the subject of the child labor scandal that triggers the conflict, and they resist American intervention.

### [II: The Rise of Patagonia](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/last_and_first_men_se/chapters/ii-the-rise-of-patagonia)

The ancient 'Indian' and Peruvian stock that contributed to the Patagonian racial mix, bringing a dormant but persistent cultural spirit that resurfaces.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/last_and_first_men_se/characters/the_indians
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/last_and_first_men_se
- All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/last_and_first_men_se/characters