'Red Indians' were the first ever to live in America and lived there alone for centuries. They weren't called red Indians because of their skin colour, but because of the red war paint they wore when going out? The White Man discovered the Native Americans(Red Indians) in the 16th Century. They were by no means foolish, they knew how to use stone, wood, skin and bone for their weapons and household objects, but knew absolutely nothing about Metal. The men knew how to get their women (squaws) to carry all the heavy loads, all about fire to cook and keep them warm.