Why were Native Americans so romanticized by the settlers? Even today, they're still portrayed as ones in touch with nature and all that is around them. In reality, they're glorified Southeast Asians. If you want to see the in-between for the two groups, look at how much shit there is about the Hawaiians and how connected they are
What caused this romanticization?
Because Injuns are considered a pretty "American" thing. Like weapons, BBQ and Apple Pie.
It's a cultural thing to see the Indians as noble.