The Battle at Elderbush Gulch

It's worth noting that in D W Griffith's early Western, The Battle at Elderbush Gulch, it's the Mexican who saves the day, by riding for reinforcements to save the embattled community of white settlers. Not that his efforts, which lead to his near-fatal exhaustion, are much recognized.

Meanwhile the Native Americans, by contrast, are shown as pretty much unadulterated savages: with a fondness for dogmeat, even to the extent of wanting to chow down on a pair of orphans' favorite pets, and with an unmitigated desire for vengeance at any and every turn.

Fortunately, when the cavalry arrive, summoned by the Mexican's epic ride, peace is restored and even the pooches are safe.