Title: The Journey of Crazy Horse: A Lakota History

Author: Joseph M. Marshall III

Choose one topic from your reading that caught your interest, whether it’s a character, theme, event, or concept. Next, gather key details, quotes, and facts about your chosen topic. Write them down here. Then, create a visual journal entry using drawings, clip art, images or other media to represent the information you’ve gathered. Include text alongside your images to explain them.

1 answer

Topic: The Legacy of Crazy Horse

Key Details:

  1. Background:

    • Crazy Horse, known as Tȟašúŋke Witkó in Lakota, was a prominent Oglala Lakota leader who played a crucial role in resisting the encroachment of European settlers on Native lands in the 19th century. His leadership during the Great Sioux War of 1876-1877, especially at the Battle of Little Bighorn, solidified his status as a symbol of resistance.
  2. Character Traits:

    • Crazy Horse is depicted as a fierce warrior, dedicated to the protection of his people and their way of life. He is portrayed as humble, deeply spiritual, and focused on community rather than personal glory.
  3. Cultural Significance:

    • His actions and beliefs are deeply rooted in Lakota spirituality and tradition, emphasizing the importance of harmony with nature, respect for all living beings, and the connection to the ancestors.
  4. Key Events:

    • The Battle of Little Bighorn (June 25, 1876): This decisive battle resulted in the defeat of General Custer's 7th Cavalry and is viewed as a significant victory for Native American forces.
    • Crazy Horse's eventual surrender and assassination in 1877: His end marked a tragic turning point for the Lakota, signifying the loss of independence and the harsh reality of colonial expansion.
  5. Legacy:

    • Crazy Horse has become an enduring symbol of Native American resistance. His legacy is celebrated through various narratives in literature, art, and public monuments, including the Crazy Horse Memorial in South Dakota.

Quotes:

  • "I see a great, big, bright future for my people."
  • "The only good soldier is the dead soldier."

Visual Journal Entry

1. Title: The Legacy of Crazy Horse

  • Image: A silhouette of a warrior on horseback against a sunset, representing Crazy Horse in battle.
    • Text: "Crazy Horse, a fierce Oglala Lakota warrior, dedicated his life to protecting his people's way of life against colonial expansion."

2. Cultural Significance

  • Image: A traditional Lakota spirit painting, symbolizing harmony with nature.
    • Text: "Crazy Horse's actions were deeply rooted in Lakota spirituality, emphasizing respect for the environment and connection to ancestors."

3. The Battle of Little Bighorn

  • Image: A historical depiction of the conflict with arrows and cavalry.
    • Text: "The Battle of Little Bighorn marked a pivotal victory for the Lakota, showcasing Crazy Horse's strategic genius and leadership."

4. Surrender and Assassination

  • Image: A somber illustration of Crazy Horse in chains, representing his surrender.
    • Text: "Crazy Horse's tragic end in 1877 signifies the heartbreaking loss of independence for the Lakota people."

5. Enduring Legacy

  • Image: An artistic representation of the Crazy Horse Memorial.
    • Text: "Crazy Horse remains a powerful symbol of resistance, celebrated in art and memorials that honor his journey and sacrifice."

By collecting these visuals and texts, the journal entry encapsulates the importance of Crazy Horse's life and legacy in Lakota history.