The Ghost Dance Movement | Native American Culture | Wounded Knee Massacre
Video Description:
"The Ghost Dance was a spiritual movement amongst Native Americans that lived in the American west. It began at the end of the 19th century and had a massive influence for the Natives living in the area. It emerged at the time of the last great battles in the country, so sadly it's linked with the Wounded Knee massacre."
Key Points from the Video:
- Origins:
- Spiritual movement among Native Americans in the West.
- Began with visions of the Paiute elder Wodziwob in 1869.
- Visions foretold renewal of the earth and help for Native people.
- Early visions included removal of settlers, later visions focused on peaceful coexistence.
- Central ceremony involved a communal circle dance.
- Woka's Prophecy and Spread of the Dance:
- Paiute named Woka (Jack Wilson) had a vision in 1889 during a solar eclipse.
- His vision echoed Wodziwob's, predicting settler departure, buffalo return, and land restoration.
- Woka's teachings emphasized peace with settlers and incorporated some Christian elements.
- The Ghost Dance spread across tribes, with leaders traveling to teach the ceremony.
- The Dance and its Symbolism:
- Participants wore "ghost shirts" believed to offer protection.
- Dancers formed a circle, shuffling and swaying to rhythmic songs.
- Trance states and unconsciousness were common during the dance.
- The dance often involved hundreds or even thousands of people.
- Conflict and the Wounded Knee Massacre:
- The Bureau of Indian Affairs grew concerned about the large gatherings.
- Lakota leader Sitting Bull was killed during an attempted arrest.
- The U.S. Army intervened, leading to the Wounded Knee Massacre in 1890.
- Over 200 Lakota were killed, marking a turning point for the Ghost Dance.
- Decline and Legacy:
- The movement declined after Wounded Knee, as the prophecies didn't materialize.
- Woka ceased public speaking but remained respected among his followers.
- The Ghost Dance adapted and continued in some areas, influencing later movements.
- The movement remains a symbol of Native American resilience and cultural preservation.
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