As the anniversary of the Battle of the Little Bighorn approaches, relatives of Sitting Bull and Custer face the enduring impact of this significant event in U.S. history. The battle, a defining moment in 1876, involved forces led by Lieutenant Colonel George Custer and leaders like Sitting Bull of the Native American tribes.
Ernie LaPointe, Sitting Bull’s great-grandson, grew up in South Dakota, carrying a significant familial legacy. His mother instructed him to keep quiet about his ancestry, fearing that it would disrupt his childhood. She advised: ‘There will be a time and place when you get the permission to do it.’
LaPointe remained silent until the early 1990s. It was then that an aunt encouraged him to step into the light and embrace his heritage. Now, LaPointe dedicates himself to preserving Sitting Bull’s legacy. Sitting Bull played a crucial role in resisting the U.S. government’s attempts to take control of the Great Plains. Despite achieving significant feats during his life, his legacy grew even more impactful after his death.