Question

How did the Ghost Dance contribute to the events leading up to the Wounded Knee Massacre?

A. Provide the Sioux with hope during the Wounded Knee Massacre
B. Exhibit violence that allowed Americans to condone their attack
C. Provide the Sioux with a peaceful means of expressing their distress
D. Frighten American soldiers into pursuing violent action against the Sioux

Answer 1

The Ghost Dance offered the Sioux a peaceful way to express their plight but led to The Wounded Knee Massacre due to misunderstandings by U.S. forces who perceived it as a threat.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Ghost Dance represented a spiritual resurgence among the Sioux, embodying a peaceful protest against the pressures of assimilation and the harsh realities of reservation life. However, the dance was misunderstood by U.S. officials and settlers as a potential prelude to armed insurrection. This misunderstanding escalated tensions, leading to the tragic events at Wounded Knee. The Ghost Dance did not exhibit violence, but it did provide the Sioux with a peaceful means of expressing their distress (option C). Unfortunately, unfounded fears and misperceptions among U.S. soldiers about the Ghost Dance's intent and potential effects helped to precipitate a violent reaction, culminating in the Wounded Knee Massacre where an estimated 150-300 Lakota men, women, and children were killed.