2. Sitting Bull
Chief Sitting Bull joined Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show in 1885 to advocate for Hunkpapa Lakota rights. His dignified presence lent unparalleled authenticity and drew massive crowds eager for a genuine Plains leader. Audiences were captivated by the contrast between his solemn persona and the show’s scripted rodeo acts. Beyond performance, he shared Lakota traditions, spoke on sovereignty, and urged justice. Though critics dubbed him a spectacle, Sitting Bull remained resolute. Learn more in Smithsonian coverage on his historic tour.
