Iron Eyes Cody

Iron Eyes Cody, born Espera Oscar de Corti on April 3, 1904, in Kaplan, Louisiana, was an American actor of Italian descent. He gained fame for his portrayal of Native Americans in Hollywood films, notably as Chief Iron Eyes in Bob Hope's The Paleface (1948). Cody also appeared in a well-known television public service announcement for Keep America Beautiful, shedding a tear about pollution. Despite being of Italian ancestry, Cody claimed to be Native American and insisted on this identity throughout his life. However, after his death, it was revealed that he was actually of Sicilian parentage. Cody's career left a lasting impact on the portrayal of Native Americans in popular culture.