Wounded Knee is a small community located on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. It is the site where one of the most tragic events in American history took place, the Wounded Knee Massacre. The massacre has become a significant event in the Native American experience and, as such, is an important topic to teach in schools. In this article, we will discuss some ways teachers can teach students about the definition of the Wounded Knee Massacre.
Define The Wounded Knee Massacre
The first step teachers should take when teaching about the Wounded Knee Massacre is to define what it was. The massacre occurred on December 29, 1890, when approximately 150 Lakota Sioux Indians were killed by the U.S. Army. This event marked the end of the Indian Wars, a series of battles between Native American tribes and the U.S. government. It is important to note that this event was a massacre, not a battle. The Lakota Sioux were unarmed and were not fighting back when they were killed.
Explain The Causes Of The Wounded Knee Massacre
To truly understand the Wounded Knee Massacre, teachers should also explain the causes of the event. The U.S. government had been trying to force Native Americans onto reservations for years. Many Native Americans refused and continued to live on their traditional lands. The Ghost Dance movement, which many Native Americans participated in, was seen as a threat to the U.S. government. The Ghost Dance was a religious movement that was believed to bring back the buffalo and bring peace between Native Americans and whites. The U.S. government feared that the Ghost Dance would cause a rebellion, and they sent in the army to stop it.
Focus On The Significance Of The Event
Teachers should also focus on the significance of the Wounded Knee Massacre. This event marked the end of the Indian Wars, but it also marked a turning point in the relationship between Native Americans and the U.S. government. The massacre was a reminder of the injustices that Native Americans had suffered at the hands of the U.S. government. The event has become a symbol of the struggle for Native American rights and a reminder of the importance of cultural preservation.
Encourage Students To Ask Questions
Finally, teachers should encourage students to ask questions about the Wounded Knee Massacre. Students should be given the opportunity to explore the event further and come to their own conclusions about its significance. Teachers can provide resources such as primary sources, documentaries, and historical accounts for students to research.
In conclusion, teaching students about the Wounded Knee Massacre is an important part of American history and Native American studies. By defining the event, explaining its causes, focusing on its significance, and encouraging students to ask questions, teachers can provide a comprehensive understanding of the event and its historical significance. It is critical that we do not forget the massacre that occurred at Wounded Knee and the injustices that Native Americans have faced throughout American history.
