What was the primary focus of Native Americans after the Wounded Knee Massacre?

The primary focus of Native Americans after the Wounded Knee Massacre was centered on preserving their culture. This tragic event, which took place in December 1890, marked a significant and devastating moment in Native American history, symbolizing the violent suppression of Indigenous peoples and their ways of life by U.S. forces. Following Wounded Knee, many Native American communities faced the loss of their lands, legal rights, and cultural practices.

In the aftermath of such trauma, there was a strong desire to maintain and revitalize their cultural identity, traditions, and languages in the face of ongoing assimilation pressures from the U.S. government and society. Many communities began to emphasize cultural education, storytelling, and the practice of traditional ceremonies as ways to foster resilience and unity among their members. This focus on cultural preservation was vital for the survival of their identities and values in a rapidly changing world dominated by Euro-American influences.