Russell Means

Definition

Russell Means was a prominent Native American activist, actor, and political leader known for his role in advocating for the rights of Indigenous peoples in the United States. He was a key figure in the American Indian Movement and played a significant part in various resistance efforts, including the 1973 Wounded Knee incident, which brought national attention to issues of tribal sovereignty and self-determination.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Russell Means was born on March 10, 1939, on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota, where he grew up immersed in Lakota culture.
2. He was a leading voice during the 1973 occupation of Wounded Knee, which lasted for 71 days and highlighted issues such as treaty violations and U.S. government policies towards Native Americans.
3. Means also ran for political office, including a bid for the presidency in 1988, advocating for Indigenous rights and sovereignty.
4. He utilized media and acting as tools for activism, appearing in films such as 'The Last of the Mohicans' and using his platform to raise awareness about Native American issues.
5. Russell Means was an influential figure in pushing for the passage of legislation like the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act.

Review Questions

• How did Russell Means contribute to the American Indian Movement and what were his key strategies?
  • Russell Means was instrumental in elevating the visibility of Indigenous issues through his leadership in the American Indian Movement. His strategies included direct action protests, such as the Wounded Knee occupation, where he aimed to draw national attention to injustices faced by Native Americans. He also emphasized grassroots organizing and coalition-building with other civil rights movements to amplify their message.
• What were the implications of Russell Means’ actions during the Wounded Knee incident for tribal sovereignty?
  • The Wounded Knee incident highlighted significant challenges to tribal sovereignty by showcasing how federal policies had historically undermined Native American self-governance. Means’ leadership during this standoff not only aimed to reclaim sovereignty but also served as a catalyst for future movements advocating for Indigenous rights. It brought awareness to tribal governments' struggles against federal encroachment and reinforced the importance of self-determination.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of Russell Means on Indigenous rights movements and how his legacy continues to influence contemporary activism.
  • Russell Means left a lasting legacy that transformed Indigenous rights movements by inspiring future generations of activists. His emphasis on self-determination and tribal sovereignty continues to resonate today as contemporary movements tackle ongoing issues such as land rights, cultural preservation, and social justice. The frameworks he helped establish have influenced modern advocacy strategies that seek to empower Indigenous communities while addressing historical grievances with governmental systems.

Related terms

American Indian Movement (AIM): A grassroots movement founded in the late 1960s aimed at addressing issues of systemic racism, poverty, and treaty rights faced by Native Americans.

Tribal Sovereignty: The inherent authority of Indigenous tribes to govern themselves within the borders of the United States, including making their own laws and managing their own affairs.

Wounded Knee: The site of two significant events in Native American history; the massacre in 1890 and the 1973 occupation led by AIM to protest government policies and seek justice.