The Ghost Dance

What was the Ghost Dance?

The Ghost Dance was a new religious movement among the Native Americans, which incorporated many of their traditional beliefs.

When did the Ghost Dance begin?

The Ghost Dance began on 1st January 1889, during a solar eclipse.

Who started the Ghost Dance?

The Ghost Dance was started by a Native American holy man called Wovoka.

Why did the Ghost Dance start?

Many Native Americans believed they had angered the gods by abandoning their culture, which had caused their misfortunes and defeat. They practised the Ghost Dance as a way of making amends, in the hope that the gods would create a new world for them.

What did Native Americans believe about the Ghost Dance?

Native Americans believed that the Ghost Dance religion would do 4 main things.

• ❖ It would bring an end to white settlement in America.
• ❖ The buffalo would return.
• ❖ Their ancestors would come back to life.
• ❖ Their traditional way of life would be restored.

What were the consequences of the Ghost Dance?

The Ghost Dance worried the US government, which tried to ban the religion. This led to the 'Ghost Dance War', which ended at Wounded Knee.