3. The Ghost Dance Movement
The Ghost Dance was a spiritual movement that swept through Lakota communities, offering hope during a time of despair. Elders taught that through dance and prayer, the world could be renewed and ancestors reunited. For many, it was a source of unity and strength. However, non-Native authorities misunderstood its purpose, viewing it as a threat rather than a prayer for peace. Their fear and suspicion only heightened tensions, bringing the conflict closer to a breaking point.



