Lakhota

Lakhota, commonly spelled Lakota, refers to a Native American people who form the western branch of the Sioux Nation. They traditionally inhabited the northern Great Plains, in what are now parts of North and South Dakota, Nebraska, Montana, and Minnesota, and are the largest and most prominent group within the Sioux.

Language and identity

The Lakota speak the Lakȟótiyapi language, usually anglicized as Lakota. It is part of the Siouan language family and has several dialects. In contemporary times, language preservation and revitalization efforts have increased, including immersion programs, community classes, and bilingual education in Lakota communities.

Origins, territory, and history

The Lakota trace their origins to the broader Sioux cultural and linguistic family. Historically, they were nomadic buffalo hunters and bison drivers who moved across the northern plains and formed social and political alliances with other Sioux groups and neighboring tribes. In the 19th century, U.S. government policies confined the Lakota to reservations. Key events include the Fort Laramie treaties of 1868, conflicts during the ensuing years, and the Wounded Knee Massacre of 1890, which marked a turning point in Lakota resistance and U.S. policy.

Culture

Lakota culture emphasizes kinship, ceremony, and artistry. Traditional life centered on buffalo hunting, tipi living, and seasonal migrations. Ceremonies such as the Sun Dance have been central to spiritual life, alongside beadwork, regalia, and storytelling. Today, Lakota communities maintain cultural practices through powwows, language programs, and educational initiatives.

Modern status

Today, Lakota people live primarily on reservations in the Dakotas, with a broader presence in urban areas. Tribally affiliated governments, such as the Oglala Sioux Tribe on Pine Ridge and the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, administer local affairs. Notable Lakota figures include historical leaders like Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull, who are recognized for their roles in resistance and cultural revival.