11 Facts About Spotted Elk

Spotted Elk was a chief of the Miniconjou, Lakota Sioux.

Spotted Elk was a son of Miniconjou chief Lone Horn and became a chief upon his father's death.

Spotted Elk was a highly renowned chief with skills in war and negotiations.

Spotted Elk was born about 1826, the son of Lakota Sioux chief Lone Horn.

Spotted Elk's family belonged to the Miniconjou subgroup of the Teton Lakota.

In 1877, Spotted Elk became the chief of his tribe upon his father's death at the age of 87.

Spotted Elk was best known among his people for his political and diplomatic successes.

Spotted Elk was skilled at settling mass quarrels and was often in great demand among other Teton bands.

Spotted Elk encouraged adaptation to reservation life, by way of developing sustainable agriculture and building schools for Lakota children.

Spotted Elk was amongst the first American Indians to raise corn in accordance with government standards.

Ill with pneumonia, Spotted Elk surrendered peacefully, with his band; the cavalry took them into custody, escorting them to a campsite near Wounded Knee Creek, Pine Ridge, where they were to set camp.