Short History Of…: Sitting Bull – Detailed Summary

Hosted by John Hopkins | Produced by Katrina Hughes, Kate Simants, Nicole Edmunds, Jacob Booth, Dorry Macaulay, Rob Plummer, Cody Reynolds-Shaw | Compositions by Oliver Baines, Dorry Macaulay, Tom Pink

Introduction

In the episode titled "Sitting Bull," hosted by John Hopkins on the Short History Of… podcast by Noiser, listeners are transported into the life and legacy of the iconic Lakota Sioux leader, Sitting Bull. The episode meticulously explores his journey from a young warrior to a revered chief, his unwavering resistance against U.S. expansion, and his enduring legacy as a symbol of Native American dignity and resilience.

Early Life and Rise to Manhood

Sitting Bull was born around 1831 near the Grand River in present-day South Dakota into the Hunkpapa division of the Lakota Sioux. His early years were marked by rigorous training typical of Lakota youth, focusing on hunting, horsemanship, and spiritual growth.

At age 14, during a pivotal raid against the Crow tribe in 1845, he earned his first coup—a ceremonial act of bravery by touching an enemy without causing harm. This act led to his renaming from Slow to Hatunka Iotake Sitting Bull, marking his transition into manhood. His father, the elder Sitting Bull, honored him by bestowing the name Jumping Bull during the celebratory feast, symbolizing his new status.

Mark Gardner (08:54): "By the time he counts his first coup and becomes Sitting Bull at the age of 14, he has already demonstrated the fairness, wisdom, skill, and bravery which will define his character."

Emergence as a Leader and Warrior

Sitting Bull quickly distinguished himself as a formidable warrior and leader. His prowess in battle earned him a place in the Strongheart Society, an elite group of Lakota warriors known for their unwavering commitment in combat. By 1856, during a significant raid against the Crow, he solidified his reputation by killing a prominent Crow war chief, despite sustaining a long-term injury.

His leadership was characterized by a deep commitment to Lakota traditions and the welfare of his people. Sitting Bull prioritized maintaining their nomadic lifestyle, following the buffalo herds, and preserving their cultural heritage amidst increasing pressures from external forces.

Treaties and Growing Tensions

The mid-19th century brought escalating conflicts as U.S. settlers, driven by the ideology of Manifest Destiny, encroached upon Lakota lands. The discovery of gold in California in the 1840s spurred a westward movement that significantly disrupted the Lakota way of life.

In 1851, the U.S. government attempted to negotiate the Fort Laramie Treaty, proposing territorial boundaries for each tribe to reduce intertribal conflicts and facilitate safe passage for settlers. However, the negotiations were flawed:

• Misrepresentation of Tribal Leadership: The U.S. officials did not understand the decentralized leadership structure of the Lakota, leading to non-representative signatories.
• Language Barriers: Ineffective interpreters hindered clear communication.

Sitting Bull was not present during these negotiations, leading him to view the treaty as a betrayal.

Mark Gardner (17:33): "As far as the US Government is concerned, the treaty is signed, and they can now travel the lands and build their forts, roads, and railways without fear of attack."

Conflict Intensifies: The Battle of the Little Bighorn

The discovery of gold in the Black Hills in 1874 ignited another rush, violating the Fort Laramie Treaty and leading to violent confrontations. The Lakota, under Sitting Bull's leadership, resisted the U.S. military's advances fiercely.

In June 1876, during the Great Sioux War, Sitting Bull's prophetic visions played a crucial role. During a Sundance ceremony at Deer Medicine Rocks, he envisioned a divine victory against the American forces:

John Hopkins (27:15): "Sitting Bull's most significant role in Red Cloud's war is to help unify the various Lakotas under one common fighting, the Americans."

This period culminated in the Battle of the Little Bighorn, famously known as Custer's Last Stand. Despite being in his mid-40s and considered an elder by this time, Sitting Bull's influence was paramount in orchestrating the Lakota's victory against Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer.

Mark Gardner (35:29): "Early one June morning, scouts from Custer's 7th Cavalry find a large Native American camp along the Little Bighorn River. In a gross underestimation of the strength of his enemy, Custer guesses there to be a few hundred warriors in the camp."

Although Sitting Bull did not personally lead his warriors into battle, his leadership and spiritual guidance were instrumental in their triumph.

Exile and Return

Following the increasing military pressure and dwindling buffalo populations, Sitting Bull led his followers into Canada for refuge. However, life there was harsh, with limited support and resources. By 1881, facing starvation and no viable options, Sitting Bull made the difficult decision to return to the United States.

Upon his return, he was detained and eventually sent to the Standing Rock Reservation in North Dakota. Here, he continually resisted the imposed regulations and the diminishing autonomy of his people, often clashing with the Indian agent James McLaughlin.

Cultural Advocacy and the Ghost Dance Movement

In 1885, Sitting Bull joined Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show, leveraging his fame to advocate for Lakota rights. Although initially hopeful, his meeting with the U.S. President ended in disappointment, reinforcing his distrust of the government's promises.

Back on the reservation, facing oppressive conditions and declining buffalo herds, Sitting Bull supported the emerging Ghost Dance Movement—a spiritual revival promising the return of the buffalo and the removal of white settlers. Despite not fully aligning with its doctrines, he recognized its potential to inspire hope among his people.

John Hopkins (46:30): "A Paiute Indian named Wavoka had a vision where if you danced a certain dance... the buffalo would come back, the antelope would come back... and the white men would go away."

This movement, however, was perceived as a direct threat by the U.S. authorities, leading to increased tensions.

Final Stand and Legacy

On December 15, 1890, Sitting Bull was residing at the Standing Rock Reservation when he was tragically killed during an attempted arrest by Indian agency policeman Henry Bullhead. The confrontation escalated into a violent clash, resulting in the deaths of Sitting Bull, Bullhead, and several others.

John Hopkins (52:34): "His greatest legacy is that his life continues to inspire us in many, many ways today... his devotion to a way of life or tradition to the very end that he died for. That is his legacy."

Sitting Bull's enduring legacy is a testament to his unwavering commitment to his people's autonomy, cultural preservation, and resistance against oppression. He remains an emblem of Native American resilience and dignity, celebrated through numerous monuments and historical accounts.

Conclusion

John Hopkins concludes the episode by emphasizing Sitting Bull's profound impact on history and modern inspiration. His life story underscores the struggles faced by Native Americans and the enduring fight for rights and sovereignty. Sitting Bull's legacy continues to inspire movements for justice and cultural preservation today.

John Hopkins (52:34): "He can inspire us, and he can even inspire us through the tragedy of his life. That he died a senseless death, that they just wanted to be left alone."

Next Episode Teaser

The episode wraps up with a preview of the next installment, promising a comprehensive look into the Vietnam War, highlighting the harrowing experiences of American soldiers in the dense jungles.

Mark Gardner (53:32): "That's next time. If you can't wait a week until the next episode, you can listen to it right away by subscribing to Noiser Plus."

Key Quotes:

• Mark Gardner (08:54): "By the time he counts his first coup and becomes Sitting Bull at the age of 14, he has already demonstrated the fairness, wisdom, skill, and bravery which will define his character."

• John Hopkins (27:15): "Sitting Bull's most significant role in Red Cloud's war is to help unify the various Lakotas under one common fighting, the Americans."

• Mark Gardner (35:29): "Early one June morning, scouts from Custer's 7th Cavalry find a large Native American camp along the Little Bighorn River. In a gross underestimation of the strength of his enemy, Custer guesses there to be a few hundred warriors in the camp."

• John Hopkins (46:30): "A Paiute Indian named Wavoka had a vision where if you danced a certain dance... the buffalo would come back, the antelope would come back... and the white men would go away."

• John Hopkins (52:34): "His greatest legacy is that his life continues to inspire us in many, many ways today... his devotion to a way of life or tradition to the very end that he died for. That is his legacy."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates all critical aspects of Sitting Bull's life as discussed in the podcast episode, blending historical facts with engaging narrative elements and notable quotes to provide an insightful overview for both new listeners and history enthusiasts.