In the early 20th century, the Yahi tribe faced severe disruption and population decline due to European American expansion. Ishi, believed to be the last surviving member of the Yahi, emerged from the wilderness near Oroville, California, seeking food and safety. His appearance was not just a personal revelation but a cultural one, representing a connection to a world largely hidden from European Americans by decades of violence and eradication. Anthropologist Alfred Kroeber from the University of California, Berkeley, and other scholars became fascinated by Ishi and his knowledge of Yahi language, traditions, and lifestyle.

Ishi's integration into society led to significant anthropological studies, as he was able to provide insights into the rituals, beliefs, and survival practices of his people. Ishi's existence highlighted the stark contrasts between Native American cultures and the encroaching European American society. As he engaged with the world, Ishi became symbolic of the struggle to preserve Native American heritage amidst rapid cultural changes. His journey was chronicled by Kroeber and others, putting a spotlight on Native American issues in an era that often overlooked them.

The context of Ishi's emergence lies in the broader patterns of colonization, where indigenous peoples faced immense pressures from settlers. His life story was a poignant reminder of the losses experienced by Native Americans and a call for documenting their histories and cultures before they disappeared entirely. Although Ishi's life in the white world was fraught with challenges, he navigated the complexities of a rapidly changing environment as a bridge between two worlds.