The Story Behind This Evil Place In South Dakota Will Make Your Blood Turn Cold
For decades, the story of Wounded Knee was told from the perspective of white men. The horror that occurred on December 29, 1890 was called the “Battle Of Wounded Knee,” which sounded like an armed conflict of war between U.S. troops and the Lakota people. In fact, following the massacre at this place, many U.S soldiers received Medals of Honor. As historical details have been studied, the U.S. Government now has a quite different perspective on the “Wounded Knee Massacre.” Wounded Knee is a place where many died, mostly because of cultural misunderstanding, fear and bravado.
The "Ghost Dance," a religious dance performed by the Lakota as a way of worship, was very impressive. Some people misinterpreted the dance, however, and thought that it foretold of attack on the troops.
When asked by General Colby of the Nebraska National Guard, what he thought about the hostility level of the Lakota, McGillycuddy responded that no reports of Lakota violence toward whites had ever been reported, and that he strongly suggested not to disarm the Lakota. His suggestion was not followed.
On December 29, 1890, troops attempted to disarm the Lakota. Exact details are unknown, but after the troops had confiscated several rifles, they asked one man, Black Coyote, to hand over his rifle. Black Coyote, who was both deaf and did not speak English, did not comply. During the scuffle to retrieve the rifle, it went off. A shooting battle ensued. Women, children and elderly Lakota tried to run away, but were shot down by troops.
50 Lakota were wounded. 25 soldiers died, and 39 were wounded (some were thought to have been wounded and killed by friendly fire).
It reads, "This monument is erected by surviving relatives and other Ogalala and Cheyenne River Sioux Indians in memory of the Chief Big Foot massacre December 29, 1890. Col. Forsyth in command of US troops. Big Foot was a great chief of the Sioux Indians. He often said, 'I will stand in peace till my last day comes.' He did many good and brave deeds for the white man and the red man. Many innocent women and children who knew no wrong died here."
In 1990, the U.S. Congress formally expressed "deep regret" for the massacre in a resolution.
Have you visited the Wounded Knee Massacre Monument?
