Why 'Indian' Motorcycle is Named After American Natives, Not India

In the world of motorcycling, the name Indian Motorcycle is often associated with a brand that has roots deeply embedded in American history. However, the curious history behind the name might surprise many. The brand, founded by George Hendee and Oscar Hedstrom, took inspiration from a tribe native to North America, not the Indian subcontinent. This article delves into the origins of the name and provides insights into the historical context and cultural significance of this branding choice.

The Name 'Indian'

When George Hendee and Oscar Hedstrom decided to name their brand 'Indian', they aimed to create a distinctive mark in the rapidly growing motorcycle market of the early 20th century. The name they chose was not based on the Indian subcontinent, but rather on the indigenous peoples of America, often referred to as the Red Indians. This misnomer originates from a historical mistake made by Christopher Columbus, who, upon landing on the Americas, mistakenly believed he had arrived in India.

Contextual Understanding of the Name

The confusion around the term 'Indian' is further compounded by its frequent usage in popular culture, such as the film The Lone Ranger and the movie Apocalypse Now, where characters often dressed and portrayed as 'Indians' were in fact native Americans of the Americas. This branding choice by the motorcycle company has both historical and contemporary significance, as it ties the name to a native American tribe, introducing an element of historical and cultural representation.

Historical Context in the Brand

The branding name 'Indian' reflects the company's initial marketing strategy and cultural references prevalent during its time. The choice of a logo depicting a native American's unique eagle feather head dress was not just an aesthetic decision. It served as a symbol of heritage and pride that resonated with the consumers of that era. This marketing tactic was particularly effective because it tapped into the popular imagery of the 'noble savage' as illustrated in Hollywood westerns. These films often romanticized the life of native Americans, further cementing the idea of the brand as a symbol of rugged individualism and adventure.

Marketing and Cultural Appropriation

While the choice of the name and logo made sense in the context of their branding and market positioning, some might argue that it could be seen as a form of cultural appropriation. The term 'Indian' is used as a marketing gimmick to evoke a sense of tradition and heritage. In modern society, the use of such names can sometimes be seen as disrespectful or insensitive, as they appropriate a term that carries significant cultural weight. However, the intention behind the name at the time of its creation was not necessarily to appropriated a culture but rather to leverage a cultural reference that was resonant with the target audience.

Conclusion

While the name 'Indian' may seem innocuous or even patriotic to some, it is important to understand its historical context and the cultural references it evokes. The branding choice by 'Indian' Motorcycle to use the name of a native American tribe is a reflection of the cultural references of its time. It is crucial for modern consumers to be aware and informed about such branding choices and their potential impact on different cultural communities.