Sitting Bull: Champion of the Sioux

Sitting Bull - Champion Of The Sioux - A Biography

by Stanley Vestal

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5447 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	522 pages
Paperback	:	281 pages
Item Weight	:	14.1 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.51 x 0.98 x 8.86 inches

FREE

Early Life and Rise to Prominence

Born around 1831 near Grand River, South Dakota, Sitting Bull was given the Lakota name Tatanka Iyotake, meaning "Buffalo Sitting Down." He belonged to the Hunkpapa Lakota, a branch of the Sioux tribe. From a young age, Sitting Bull displayed remarkable hunting skills and bravery. His exceptional vision and understanding of the land earned him the respect of his people, and he quickly rose through the ranks.

In 1863, Sitting Bull's prestige grew further when he became a member of the Warrior Society. He participated in numerous raids against rival tribes and played a pivotal role in defending Sioux territory from encroachment by miners and settlers.

Resistance to White Expansion

As white settlement expanded westward, tensions between Native Americans and the United States government escalated. In 1868, the Treaty of Fort Laramie was signed, promising the Sioux vast tracts of land in the Black Hills and Powder River country. However, gold was discovered in the Black Hills, and the government reneged on its agreement.

Sitting Bull adamantly opposed the invasion of the Black Hills, calling it "the heart of all that is mine." He refused to sign any treaties and led his band of Lakota warriors in armed resistance against the U.S. Army.

Battle of Little Bighorn

In June 1876, Sitting Bull and allied Cheyenne and Arapaho warriors faced off against Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer's 7th Cavalry at the Battle of Little Bighorn. Outnumbering the cavalry by a significant margin, the Sioux and their allies launched a surprise attack, annihilating Custer's entire force.

The victory at Little Bighorn was a major triumph for Sitting Bull, but it also brought increased scrutiny and military pressure from the government. The army pursued Sitting Bull relentlessly, forcing him to flee into Canada with his followers.

Surrender and Reservation Life

After four years of exile, Sitting Bull surrendered to U.S. forces in 1881. He was imprisoned for two years and then forced to live on the Standing Rock Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Despite his confinement, Sitting Bull remained a symbol of resistance and a spiritual leader for his people.

In 1890, the Wounded Knee Massacre took place near the Standing Rock Reservation. Hundreds of Sioux were killed by U.S. troops, including Sitting Bull's son, Crow Foot. This tragic event shattered the already fragile trust between Native Americans and the government.

Legacy and Influence

Sitting Bull passed away in 1890 at the age of 59. His refusal to compromise his beliefs and his unwavering commitment to defending his people's land and way of life made him a legendary figure in American history.

Sitting Bull became an inspiration for generations of Native Americans, and his legacy continues to resonate in the ongoing struggle for indigenous rights and self-determination.

In 1986, a postage stamp was issued in Sitting Bull's honor. His image has also appeared on several commemorative coins and medals.

Sitting Bull was a visionary leader, a fearless warrior, and a spiritual guide who dedicated his life to preserving the Sioux way of life. His unwavering determination and resistance against oppression have left an indelible mark on American history and continue to inspire individuals around the world.

Sitting Bull - Champion Of The Sioux - A Biography

by Stanley Vestal

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5447 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	522 pages
Paperback	:	281 pages
Item Weight	:	14.1 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.51 x 0.98 x 8.86 inches

FREE