The Badge Archive

Sing – Ten Little Indians

Please be aware this is not recommended to be sung. It is part of Scouting History so we have archived the lyrics here, but please understand why it’s no longer appropriate:

  • Origins in Minstrel Shows: The original version of Ten Little Indians was written in 1868 and performed in minstrel shows, which often mocked and dehumanized marginalized groups.
  • Racist Stereotypes: The lyrics and imagery reinforced harmful caricatures of Native Americans as “savage” or inferior, embedding these ideas in children’s culture under the guise of play.
  • Coded Messaging: Scholars have pointed out that the song subtly normalized violence and erasure, ending with “one little Indian boy livin’ all alone”, a chilling echo of historical genocide.
  • Cultural Sensitivity Today: Even if the lyrics are changed (e.g., to “puppies” or “soldiers”), the original context still lingers. Many educators and leaders now avoid it entirely to honor Indigenous dignity and avoid perpetuating outdated narratives.

Lyrics

WARNING: Because of the song’s origins in minstrel shows and its use of harmful stereotypes, it’s best not to sing the lyrics. They are displayed here for historical reference.

Classic Lyrics

One little two little three little Indians
Four little five little six little Indians,
Seven little eight little nine little Indians
Ten little Indian boys.

Ten little, nine little, eight little Indians
Seven little six little five little Indians
Four little three little two little Indians
One little Indian boy.

Original 1868 Lyrics

Ten little Injuns standin’ in a line,
One toddled home and then there were nine.

Nine little Injuns swingin’ on a gate,
One tumbled off and then there were eight.

Eight little Injuns gayest under heaven.
One went to sleep and then there were seven.

Seven little Injuns cuttin’ up their tricks,
One broke his neck and then there were six.

Six little Injuns all alive,
One kicked the bucket and then there were five.

Five little Injuns on a cellar door,
One tumbled in and then there were four.

Four little Injuns up on a spree,
One got fuddled and then there were three.

Three little Injuns out on a canoe,
One tumbled overboard and then there were two.

Two little Injuns foolin’ with a gun,
One shot the other and then there was one.

One little Injun livin’ all alone,
He got married and then there were none.

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References:

Tia Kennard