History of Sitting Bull

Sitting Bull, born around 1831 near the Grand River in present-day South Dakota, is best known as a prominent leader and warrior of the Hunkpapa Lakota Sioux tribe. While he is predominantly remembered as a spiritual leader and a formidable resistance figure against U.S. forces, examining Sitting Bull through the lens of a politician reveals a layered narrative about his influence and diplomatic acumen.

In the mid-19th century, as the United States expanded westward, tensions with Native American tribes intensified. Territories occupied by indigenous peoples were increasingly targeted for settlement and resource extraction. Sitting Bull’s early life was shaped against this backdrop of conflict and resistance. From a young age, he demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities. He was known for his bravery and strategic mind, which quickly elevated him to leadership positions within the tribe.

By the 1860s, Sitting Bull had emerged as a central political figure among the Sioux. This period saw substantial friction between the U.S. government and various Northern Plains tribes, culminating in numerous treaties that were often misunderstood or outright violated. Sitting Bull's political stance was characterized by staunch opposition to U.S. incursions and treaty agreements that undermined Sioux sovereignty. Unlike some tribal leaders who engaged in treaties, Sitting Bull advocated for unified resistance, urging Sioux and other tribes to hold firm to their traditional lands and way of life.

One of Sitting Bull’s defining political achievements was his role in the formation of a broad coalition of Northern Plains tribes. Under his leadership, tribes that often had their own internal conflicts came together to resist a common external threat. This coalition was instrumental in the famous victory over the 7th Cavalry at the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876, often referred to as Custer's Last Stand. This victory was both a military triumph and a political statement, symbolizing defiance against U.S. expansionism.

While a tactician on the battlefield, Sitting Bull was pragmatic in political dealings. He recognized the power imbalances at play and shrewdly navigated relations with the U.S. government and other tribes. His ability to unify disparate groups was rooted in his respect for tribal autonomy and a deep understanding of intertribal dynamics.

After the Battle of Little Bighorn, Sitting Bull faced significant pressure as the U.S. intensified its campaign against the Sioux. During this period, his political strategy had to adapt. In 1877, he led his band into Canada, seeking asylum. This move illustrated his commitment to safeguarding his people, even if it meant separation from their traditional territory. The stay in Canada, however, presented challenges in terms of resources and political negotiations with the Canadian government, which was unwilling to support him against the United States indefinitely.

By 1881, under increasing hardship and with few alternatives, Sitting Bull and his followers returned to the U.S. and surrendered. Even in surrender, Sitting Bull maintained his dignity and political presence. His return marked a transition from active resistance to a diplomatic and symbolic form of leadership. He spent two years imprisoned as a prisoner of war before being sent to a reservation.

On the reservation, Sitting Bull remained a powerful symbol of resistance. He leveraged his status to advocate for the Sioux people's rights and well-being. His presence was a constant reminder of the Sioux's cultural and political sovereignty, which became particularly significant during the period when the U.S. government implemented policies aimed at assimilation.

In 1885, Sitting Bull joined Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show, a decision often interpreted as a savvy political move. By participating, he earned money, observed American society, and used his fame to raise awareness of Native American struggles. He used this platform to articulate the injustices faced by his people, maintaining his role as a political figure advocating for their rights.

Sitting Bull’s political legacy is also deeply intertwined with the Ghost Dance movement of the late 1880s. This movement, rooted in cultural revitalization and resistance, was seen as a threat by the U.S. government. Sitting Bull’s support of the movement once again placed him at the heart of a significant political and cultural moment. His political influence was seen as pivotal in galvanizing Native sentiment at a time of despair and upheaval.

Tragically, his life ended on December 15, 1890, when he was killed by Indian agency police on the Standing Rock Reservation, amid fears that he would use his influence to further the Ghost Dance movement. His death marked a significant loss, not only for the Sioux but for all Native Americans, symbolizing the broader struggles faced by indigenous peoples in asserting their rights and protecting their cultures.

In retrospect, Sitting Bull's political journey reflects the complexities of Native American leadership during a tumultuous era. His vision and strategies underscore the enduring struggle for sovereignty, resistance, and cultural survival. As a politician, he navigated a myriad of challenges with resilience, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire indigenous and non-indigenous peoples alike.