Final answer:
The Wounded Knee Massacre on December 29, 1890, near Wounded Knee Creek in South Dakota, resulted from heightened tensions due to the Ghost Dance and was exacerbated by the assassination of Sitting Bull, culminating in the death of around 300 Sioux Native Americans and marking an end to Native armed resistance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Wounded Knee Massacre Overview
The Wounded Knee Massacre represents a somber and critical event in American history, illustrating the conflict between the U.S. government and Native American tribes during the expansionist period of the late 19th century. Occurring on December 29, 1890, this catastrophic event entailed the 7th Cavalry of the U.S. Army opening fire on a group of Lakota Sioux near Wounded Knee Creek in South Dakota. The escalating tensions were further intensified by the spiritual movement known as the Ghost Dance, which was perceived by the surrounding settlers and government as a potential for an uprising.
Lead-Up to the Massacre
Prior to the massacre, the Ghost Dance emerged as a symbol of hope for the Lakota people, who were suffering under the harsh conditions of reservation life and the systemic erosion of their culture and lands. The assassination of the prominent Lakota leader Sitting Bull exacerbated fears and, in a state of panic and mourning, some included Big Foot's followers, fled, leading to their interception by U.S forces.
The Massacre and Aftermath
The event at Wounded Knee resulted in a profound loss of life, with estimates suggesting approximately 300 Sioux men, women, and children perished. The tragedy also marked the end of armed Native American resistance against U.S. government forces. Ironically, despite the one-sided nature of the engagement, soldiers received honors for their actions, deepening the wound in the collective memory of indigenous peoples and highlighting controversies surrounding military commendations in American history.