Wounded Knee Massacre 1890: Native American Tragedy — Reading Comprehension

The Wounded Knee Massacre of 1890 marked a devastating turning point in United States and Native American relations. On December 29, 1890, U.S. Army soldiers confronted a group of Lakota Sioux at Wounded Knee Creek in South Dakota. Tensions between the U.S. government and Native Americans had risen sharply for decades due to broken treaties, forced relocations, and efforts to suppress Native cultures. The massacre was not a single, sudden event, but the result of a long history of conflict and misunderstanding.

One major cause of this tragedy was the growing fear among U.S. officials of the Ghost Dance movement. The Ghost Dance was a spiritual practice among some Native tribes. Its followers believed it could restore their way of life and drive away white settlers. This belief alarmed many U.S. leaders, who saw it as a sign of Native resistance. As a result, the government sent more troops to Lakota lands and tried to arrest influential Native leaders, including Sitting Bull, who was killed during an attempted arrest.

From the Lakota perspective, the arrival of the Army brought fear and uncertainty. The Lakota had already lost much of their land and freedom. They hoped to survive by following government orders but also sought to keep their culture alive. A Lakota survivor later said, “We tried to show them we meant no harm, but they came with guns.” This testimony shows the deep mistrust and desperation the Lakota experienced. Primary sources like this help us understand the emotional and human cost of the event.

When the Army tried to disarm the Lakota at Wounded Knee, a shot was fired—historians still debate who fired first. The soldiers responded with overwhelming force, using rifles and even cannons. More than 250 Lakota men, women, and children were killed, along with about 25 soldiers. The massacre was quickly reported in newspapers, but the stories often differed. Some described a battle; others called it a slaughter. This difference in interpretation reflects the complex nature of history and the importance of examining multiple viewpoints.

After the massacre, the U.S. government mostly described the event as a necessary military action, and many soldiers received medals. However, many Americans and Native people saw it as a terrible injustice. The massacre effectively ended Native resistance in the Plains and led to more efforts to force Native Americans onto reservations and erase their traditions. Over time, the Wounded Knee Massacre became a symbol of the tragic results of U.S. policies toward Native peoples. In the words of a later Lakota leader, “Wounded Knee is not the end of our story, but a reminder.”

In conclusion, the Wounded Knee Massacre was shaped by misunderstandings, fear, and policies of control. It had lasting consequences for the Lakota and for the history of the United States. By studying primary sources and different perspectives, historians gain a fuller understanding of why this tragedy happened and why it matters today.

Interesting Fact: The U.S. government awarded over 20 Medals of Honor to soldiers at Wounded Knee, a decision still debated today.

When did the Wounded Knee Massacre happen?

Which Native group was involved?

Where did the massacre take place?

Why did U.S. officials fear the Ghost Dance?

What was one effect of the massacre?

What does the survivor's quote show?

The U.S. Army received medals. True or false?

What is a 'primary source'?