Buffalo Soldiers: George Jordan and the Indian Wars
18-26 Age Group
Josh Cardenas
8 mins | 2023
Personal Project
Filmed in: United States
Language: English
A compelling exploration of the overlooked contributions and struggles of African American soldiers during America's Westward expansion, centering on the heroic but under-recognized efforts of George Jordan, a Buffalo Soldier whose tenacious defense against Apache resistances and personal sacrifices invite us to reflect on our own responsibilities in recognizing and honoring such unsung heroes.
Josh Cardenas - Director, Writer
Daniel Leonard Bernardi - Writer, Producer
Robert Keith Collins - Key Cast
Director Biography - Josh Cardenas
Joshua J. Cardenas is an editor, director, and sound designer based out of Los Angeles CA. He attended Moorpark College, a junior college in Southern California, which is where he began his pursuit in cinematic arts. After achieving an associate degree in Film and Television Media, he transferred to San Francisco State University in the Fall of 2020, where he received his Bachelor in Cinematic Arts in 2022. Josh's main area of focus is post-production, as well as directing a number of projects. He has been credited for editing many projects for El Dorado Films, as well as editing and directing projects for numerous companies such as "Monster Cable", "The Agency", "Compass", "Sharper Image" and many more.
Director Statement
As the director of "Buffalo Soldiers: George Jordan and the Indian Wars," I feel a profound connection to this project that extends beyond academic interest. My fascination with the interwoven histories of race, war, and honor spurred me to tell a story that had been marginalized for far too long. Centered on George Jordan, a man born into the chains of slavery but who courageously rose to become a soldier in some of the most brutal conflicts of America's westward expansion, the film is an effort to illuminate the shadows that have unfairly clouded the Buffalo Soldiers' legacy. It juxtaposes the staunch resistance of Apache Chiefs with the indomitable spirit of African American warriors, while also highlighting the bitter irony of their battle: fighting for a country that failed to acknowledge their sacrifice or grant them their rightful dignity against an “enemy” that was fighting for their freedom. The narrative reminds us of Jordan's decline and the Army's heartrending refusal to provide him with care, marking a stark contrast against the heroism of his deeds. In presenting this untold history, I hope to provoke a re-evaluation of what we think we know about our past and to inspire a renewed commitment to recognition, respect, and reparative justice in the present. By asking what we can give to honor these unsung heroes, I aspire to foster a deeper understanding and a better, more inclusive future.