Wounded Knee Massacre

Definition

The Wounded Knee Massacre refers to the tragic event that occurred on December 29, 1890, when U.S. Army troops killed hundreds of Lakota Sioux at Wounded Knee Creek in South Dakota. This event marked the end of armed conflict between Native Americans and the U.S. government, symbolizing the brutal consequences of westward expansion and the suppression of Native American cultures and traditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Wounded Knee Massacre resulted in the deaths of an estimated 150 to 300 Lakota Sioux, including women and children, marking it as one of the deadliest events in Native American history.
2. The massacre was triggered by misunderstandings and fears regarding the Ghost Dance movement, which was seen as a threat by U.S. authorities.
3. The U.S. Army's 7th Cavalry was responsible for carrying out the massacre, reflecting the ongoing military presence and oppressive tactics against Native Americans during this period.
4. In the aftermath of Wounded Knee, the U.S. government intensified its efforts to assimilate Native Americans into Euro-American culture through education and other means.
5. The Wounded Knee Massacre is often viewed as a symbol of the broader struggle between Native Americans and the U.S. government during westward expansion, highlighting issues of sovereignty, violence, and cultural erasure.

Review Questions

• How did the events leading up to the Wounded Knee Massacre reflect broader tensions between Native Americans and the U.S. government?
  • The events preceding the Wounded Knee Massacre, particularly the rise of the Ghost Dance movement, highlighted growing fears among U.S. authorities regarding Native American resistance and cultural revival. The government's suspicion that this spiritual movement would incite violence led to heightened military responses. As tensions escalated, misunderstandings surrounding this peaceful expression of faith ultimately culminated in a tragic confrontation that underscored deep-seated conflicts over land and sovereignty.
• Evaluate how the Wounded Knee Massacre impacted Native American policies and perceptions in America after 1890.
  • Following the Wounded Knee Massacre, there was a significant shift in both public perception and governmental policies toward Native Americans. The event drew national attention to the brutal treatment of indigenous peoples, prompting some reformers to advocate for better treatment and rights for Native Americans. However, it also solidified a more oppressive stance from the government, leading to increased assimilation efforts aimed at erasing Native cultures through education and forced relocation into reservations.
• Assess how the legacy of the Wounded Knee Massacre continues to influence contemporary issues related to Native American rights and identity.
  • The legacy of the Wounded Knee Massacre plays a crucial role in contemporary discussions around Native American rights and identity, serving as a powerful reminder of historical injustices faced by indigenous peoples. This event is often referenced in discussions about land sovereignty, treaty rights, and cultural preservation. Modern movements for Native American rights frequently draw upon this history to highlight ongoing struggles against systemic oppression and advocate for recognition, reparations, and cultural revitalization within their communities.

Related terms

Ghost Dance: A spiritual movement among Native Americans that emerged in the late 19th century, promoting a vision of peace and the restoration of traditional ways of life, which contributed to tensions leading up to the massacre.

Reservation System: A policy that designated specific areas for Native American tribes to live on, often leading to loss of land and resources, contributing to conflicts with the U.S. government.

Sioux Wars: A series of conflicts between the United States and various Sioux tribes during the 19th century, primarily over land disputes and broken treaties.