"In a recent letter to the editor from Cody Barden (June 24), Mr. Barden wonders why the Lakota are celebrating the June 25, 1876, victory at Little Big Horn considering the loss of American lives that occurred and wonders if the whites in Deadwood should celebrate the loss of Indian lives at Wounded Knee.

That question might linger in the minds of many South Dakotans, and it indicates a severe lack of education in the areas of United States, South Dakota and Indian history. I don't fault Mr. Barden for the question because he is most likely the product of our educational system. He apparently cares enough to ask the question.

The confrontation that ensued at Little Big Horn was a military engagement. It was a military battle, even though the United States had never formally declared war on the Sioux. Custer was defeated. The Sioux celebrate the victory to this day because it was a victory in which the Sioux defended her people and her land. It is important to know that the Sioux were fighting a defensive battle and that the Sioux warriors were armed. No white women or children were present."

Get the Story:
Patrick Lee: History behind battle celebration (The Rapid City Journal 7/17)

Relevant Links:
Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument - http://www.nps.gov/libi

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