Hollow Horn Bear – Brule Sioux Chief
Hollow Horn Bear was a prominent leader of the Brule Lakota tribe in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was a highly respected political and social activist who advocated for Native American rights and sovereignty. Hollow Horn Bear’s legacy has endured through his leadership, advocacy, and influence on contemporary Lakota leaders and activists. In this article, we will explore the life and legacy of this remarkable leader, from his early life and family background to his pivotal role in treaty negotiations and advocacy for Lakota sovereignty.
1. Early Life and Family Background of Hollow Horn Bear
Childhood
Hollow Horn Bear was born in the late 1850s in what is now known as South Dakota. He was a member of the Brule Lakota tribe, which was a part of the larger Sioux nation. Like many Native American children of his time, Hollow Horn Bear was sent to a missionary school where he was taught to speak English and instructed in Christianity.
Family Background
Hollow Horn Bear’s father was a respected member of the Brule tribe and was known for his hunting and fighting prowess. His mother was a member of the Hunkpati Dakota tribe. As a child, Hollow Horn Bear learned the traditions and stories of his people from his parents and other elders in his community.
2. Education and Transition to Leadership
Education in Missionary Schools
Hollow Horn Bear attended school at the Santee Normal Training School in Nebraska, which was run by the Congregational church. He excelled academically and was recognized for his leadership abilities by the school’s staff.
Leadership Roles in the Brule Lakota Tribe
After returning to his tribe, Hollow Horn Bear quickly became a leader in his community. He served as a warrior and participated in battles against other tribes and against the United States Army. Over time, he became known for his diplomatic skills and was often called upon to negotiate treaties and settle disputes between different factions of the Brule tribe.
3. Political and Social Activism of Hollow Horn Bear
Activism for Native American Rights
Hollow Horn Bear was a vocal advocate for Native American rights and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of his people. He spoke out against the forced relocation of Native American tribes to reservations and worked to protect indigenous lands from encroachment by white settlers.
Involvement in the Ghost Dance Movement
Hollow Horn Bear was also a participant in the Ghost Dance movement, which was a spiritual revival that swept across many Native American tribes in the late 1800s. The movement was seen as a form of resistance against the injustices and oppression that Native Americans faced at the hands of the U.S. government.
4. Role in Treaty Negotiations and Advocacy for Native American Rights
Negotiations with the United States Government
Hollow Horn Bear played a crucial role in negotiating treaties between the Brule Lakota tribe and the U.S. government. Despite the fact that many of these treaties were broken or reneged upon by the government, Hollow Horn Bear continued to work towards a sustainable and just relationship between his people and the federal government.
Advocacy for Lakota Sovereignty and Self-Determination
Throughout his life, Hollow Horn Bear remained committed to the idea of Lakota sovereignty and self-determination. He believed that Native American tribes should have the right to govern themselves and to make decisions about their own future without interference from outside forces. His work and advocacy laid the foundation for future generations of Native American leaders to continue the fight for sovereignty and self-determination.
5. Legacy and Impact of Hollow Horn Bear on Lakota Culture and History
Hollow Horn Bear left a lasting impact on Lakota culture and history through his leadership, advocacy, and activism. His legacy can be seen in Lakota oral tradition and the work of contemporary Lakota leaders and activists.
Legacy in Lakota Oral Tradition
Hollow Horn Bear’s contributions to Lakota society are preserved in the tribe’s oral tradition. His bravery and leadership in battles against the United States government are celebrated in Lakota stories and songs. His efforts to promote education and cultural preservation are also remembered and honored in traditional teachings.
Influence on Contemporary Lakota Leaders and Activists
Hollow Horn Bear’s legacy continues to inspire contemporary Lakota leaders and activists. His advocacy for education and cultural preservation set a powerful example for those working to promote Lakota language and traditions today. His dedication to defending Lakota land and sovereignty is also a source of inspiration for those fighting against environmental injustice and the exploitation of tribal resources.
Leaders such as Russell Means, Vine Deloria Jr., and Winona LaDuke have all cited Hollow Horn Bear as an influence on their work. His legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of courageous and visionary leadership in the face of adversity.In conclusion, Hollow Horn Bear’s life and legacy have left an indelible mark on the history and culture of the Brule Lakota tribe and Native American communities at large. His advocacy for Native American rights and sovereignty, as well as his leadership in the face of adversity, continue to inspire contemporary Lakota leaders and activists. Hollow Horn Bear’s life serves as a reminder of the strength, resilience, and rich cultural heritage of the Native American people.
FAQ:
What was Hollow Horn Bear’s role in treaty negotiations?
Hollow Horn Bear played a pivotal role in treaty negotiations between the United States government and the Brule Lakota tribe. He advocated for Lakota sovereignty and self-determination, and he worked to protect the treaty rights of his people.
What was Hollow Horn Bear’s legacy in Lakota culture?
Hollow Horn Bear’s legacy is deeply rooted in Lakota oral tradition. His leadership, advocacy, and influence on contemporary Lakota leaders and activists have helped preserve and promote Lakota culture, traditions, and values.
What was Hollow Horn Bear’s involvement in the Ghost Dance movement?
Hollow Horn Bear was a strong proponent of the Ghost Dance movement, a religious movement that emerged among Native American communities in the late 19th century. He saw the Ghost Dance as a way for Native Americans to reclaim their cultural identity and resist the assimilationist policies of the United States government.
What is the significance of Hollow Horn Bear’s advocacy for Native American rights?
Hollow Horn Bear’s advocacy for Native American rights was significant because it represented a proactive and assertive response to the injustices and oppression faced by Native American communities. His advocacy paved the way for future generations of Native American activists and leaders who continue to fight for justice and equality.
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Hollow Horn Bear was a Brule Lakota leader who fought in many of the battles of the Sioux Wars, including the Battle of Little Big Horn.
Known as Matihehlogego to his people, he was born in Sheridan County, Nebraska in March 1850. When he was just 16 years old, he accompanied a band led by his father against Pawnee Indians who they fought on the present site of Genoa, Nebraska. Two years later, in 1868, he joined a band of Brulé in an attack on United States troops in Wyoming, and later in another battle near the Crow Agency in Montana. The following year he participated in a raid on railroad workers who were constructing the Union Pacific Railroad
Later, he became the captain of the police force at the Rosebud Agency in South Dakota. During his tenure, he arrested his predecessor, Crow Dog, for the murder of Spotted Tail. Five years later he resigned and was appointed as a second lieutenant under Agent Spencer, but was compelled to resign on account of ill health.
He also became a key speaker and negotiator for the Sioux, making multiple trips to Washington, D.C. to advocate on their behalf. When General George Crook was sent with a commission to Rosebud in 1889, the chief was involved in peace negotiations.
In 1905, Hollow Horn Bear was invited to take part in the presidential inauguration of Theodore Roosevelt at Washington D.C. In 1913, he led a group of Indians to the inauguration parade of President Woodrow Wilson. While he was there he caught pneumonia and died on March 15, 1913.
