Indian Chief Sitting Bull.

Essay by Mafiaboy89 May 2003

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SITTING BULL

Sitting Bull was one of the greatest American Indian chiefs who did everything he could to bring justice to his people. He was born in the Grand River region of South Dakota in 1831. Sitting Bull's village name was Hunkesi, which means slow because anything that he did he did carefully and patiently. His Indian name was Tatanka Iyotak. When he was fourteen, Sitting Bull joined his first war party. The Sioux were fighting hostile tribes and white invaders. Sitting Bull was soon to be known for his bravery and leadership in battle. His tribe also admired his generosity and wisdom.

After he gained the trust and respect of the Sioux Tribe, Sitting Bull became the leader of the Strong Heart Warrior society. In the first year as the leader, he expanded the Sioux hunting grounds. This not only brought the Sioux tribe more food, it let them expand onto the land that had been taken away from them.

In the 1860's, the US government started to invade the native's territory. This led to many battles throughout the decade. In 1867, Sitting Bull became the chief of the entire Sioux Nation. This was the first time that one person was responsible for the entire tribe. After his promotion, peace was made between the Americans and the Sioux. Sitting Bull refused to have anything to do with the negotiations. The Fort Laramie treaty promised the Black Hills belong to the Sioux forever.

During the 1870's, gold was discovered in many parts of the west. This in turn brought thousands of people onto the Sioux land. The U.S. government ordered the Sioux to reservations and stated that anyone who did not comply was considerably dangerous. When the Sioux didn't move out, the government took action by sending the army to...