Stereotype is a naive way of looking at something/someone while not seeing the real character.  Physical characteristics or first impressions are the main ways stereotyping is accomplished.  I believe stereotyping is wrong but is done in most times instinctively.

In "The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven" by Sherman Alexie, he re-accounts being a victim of stereotype.  Alexie is from a poor Indian Reservation in the state of Washington.  He walks to a 7-11 during a night when he can't sleep.  The man working the graveyard shift at the counter eyes Sherman suspiciously as he walks in the store.  Alexie can relate to this man's look as soon as he sees it.  He knows he fits the perfect stereotype.  The stereotype of pulling out a gun and shooting the cashier late at night is the look he fits.  His long black hair and dark skin give him away.  In many articles, there are instances where Indians from the Reservation are mentioned to be sad and drunk.  These two characteristics of Indians could make them dangerous.  Since Sherman is aware of this, he decides to play along to antagonize the cashier’s nerves.  By not responding to the cashier’s friendly questions and scanning the aisles slowly, Alexie adds to the effect of the stereotype the man has of him already.  The man makes a mistake of turning his back to Alexie.  Alexie finally decides to play off the stereotype by joking with the cashier and showing him his power in knowledge of how much he really knows.  The cashier becomes relieved that his stereotype was incorrect and gives the items Alexie was buying free of no charge.

Examples of Native American Stereotypes in Children's Media

In The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain, the character Jim also is a victim of stereotyping along with other African Americans.  When the book is published in 1804, it is the way of life for whites to stereotype against the African American people.  The white Americans are brought up to believe that they are superior to African Americans.  

The African Americans were brought over the Atlantic Ocean from Africa to be slaves for the white people in North America.  Huck in the end realizes Jim does have emotion and feelings just like him.  He realizes the stereotype he has been brought up to believe is incorrect and tries to free Jim from slavery.