For those who do not know the Winnetou Saga: The stories are based on German writer Karl May, who ironically never visited the US, but, through intensive research painted a picture of a country that is sometimes strikingly accurate. The movies were made in the 1960's and represent the first and until now most successful Western adaptations made in Germany. The first film, based on a book by Karl May, turned out to be the most successful crowd-puller of the year.