Listen to an oral history of Sitting Bull, a Hunkpapa Lakota leader who resisted the US government's genocide. Explore the importance of including indigenous voices in leftist circles. Discuss the relevance of historical events to revolutionaries today. Criticize media misrepresentation in Bolivia and ongoing unrest in Iraq. Learn about upcoming projects, rituals of buffalo hunting, and the benefits of meditation.
Tribal divisions shaped the fate of the Ochete Shakowin in their resistance against colonialism.
Oral history provides a unique perspective on the life and legacy of Tatanka Yotake, challenging the dominant white cultural narrative.
Tatanka Yotake's leadership demonstrated strategic thinking and a commitment to Lakota values.
The significance of names within the Lakota tribe reveals the individual role within the collective.
Deep dives
The Life and Legacy of Sitting Bull
Tatanka Yotake, also known as Sitting Bull, was an influential leader of the Ochete Shakowin (Seven Council Fires) Lakota tribe. He was born in the 1830s during a time of conflict between indigenous tribes and white settlers. The Treaty of the Prairie du Chien in 1825 established the first borders of the Ochete Shakowin, but tensions and divisions among the tribes persisted. Tatanka Yotake was known for his careful and analytical approach to war games and hunting, earning him the name 'Jumping Badger.' He was part of the Hunkpapa Lakota band, which later split from the Oglala tribe. Tatanka Yotake's life exemplified leadership and resistance against white encroachment, drawing parallels to guerrilla fighters and movements like the American Indian Movement (AIM).
The Impact of Treaties and Divisions
The treaties signed between indigenous tribes and the US government, such as the Treaty of the Prairie du Chien, established borders and assumed compliance from all Ochete Shakowin tribes. However, the reality was far from unified action. Tribes split based on their response to white settlement and the so-called 'Caucasian question,' with some choosing assimilation and cooperation, and others advocating for resistance. These divisions would shape the fate of the Ochete Shakowin and its struggle against colonialism.
Challenges and Nuances of Oral History
Tatanka Yotake's life and legacy are best understood through an oral history, a narrative approach that encapsulates the essence and spirit of the Lakota people. It differs from traditional written histories, offering episodic narratives that convey morals and evaluate life events. Oral history provides a vibrant and impressionistic quilt of stories, rather than a tightly woven tapestry. The worldview of the Lakota people differs from the settler colonial culture of the United States, challenging the dominant white cultural narrative and offering a unique perspective on history.
Lessons in Leadership and Resistance
Tatanka Yotake's life serves as an example of leadership and resistance against colonial forces. His careful and analytical approach to warfare, including tactics like tactical retreats, demonstrated strategic thinking. He used his fame to help others, making donations to orphans and constantly giving away possessions, adhering to Lakota values of a good leader. Tatanka Yotake sought Lakota sovereignty and liberation, and his efforts to uphold and protect Lakota culture exposed the oppression of indigenous peoples by settler colonialists. His life teaches us the importance of solidarity, resistance against imperialism, and the fight for self-determination.
Lakota Naming Tradition
The podcast episode discusses the Lakota naming tradition and the significance of names within the tribe. It emphasizes that names are given based on unique qualities and characteristics of individuals, highlighting their individual role within the collective.
Tatanka Yotake's Childhood
The podcast explores the early life of Tatanka Yotake (Sitting Bull), focusing on his childhood and the recognition of his exceptional qualities from a young age. It mentions his proficiency in making a bow and his display of compassion and selflessness during a hunting challenge.
Tatanka Yotake's Leadership and Legacy
The podcast delves into Tatanka Yotake's transformation into a respected warrior and leader, highlighting his contributions to the Lakota people. It touches upon his role in battles, his vision, and his efforts to protect Lakota traditions and resist the encroachment of the white settlers. The episode also discusses his imprisonment, international fame, and tragic death.
Sungmanitou Tanka, co-host of Bands of Turtle Island, presents an oral history of the life of Sitting Bull (In Lakota: Tȟatȟáŋka Íyotake), who was a Hunkpapa Lakota leader and who led his people during years of resistance to the genocide being carried out by the United States government.
Find Bands of Turtle Island on Twitter @BandsIsland
Our logo was made by BARB, a communist graphic design collective: @Barbaradical
Intro music by DJ Captain Planet.
--------------- This podcast is affiliated with: The Nebraska Left Coalition, Omaha Tenants United, FORGE, Socialist Rifle Association (SRA), Feed The People - Omaha, and the Marxist Center.
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