The Massacre at Wounded Knee is extremely symbolic of the tense relationship that has existed between the United States and Native Americans for most of the history of the country. The massacre took place when American soldiers attempted to drive the Sioux tribe from their land. A series of misunderstandings and miscommunications led to the American soldiers firing their guns. 300 Sioux people died as a result. The incident illustrates the difficulties that cultural differences and language differences presented for the peaceful interactions of both groups.