American Missionary's 2018 Death on Remote Indian Island Highlights Dangers of Proselytizing Among Indigenous Groups

John Allen Chau, an American missionary, was killed in 2018 after illegally traveling to North Sentinel Island to convert its residents.
North Sentinel Island is home to the Sentinelese, who have resisted outside contact for centuries and attacked Chau.
The documentary "The Mission" examines Chau's actions in the context of glorifying individuals who impose their beliefs on indigenous peoples.
Interviews and writings reveal Chau was influenced by colonialist attitudes despite the dangers of his mission.
Linguist Dan Everett draws parallels to his own misguided efforts to convert the Pirahã people of Brazil.