What is the Ghost Dance?

The Ghost Dance is an expression of rebirth and renewal based on the traditional circle dance of Native Americans. The dance is only one aspect of the larger spiritual movement.

What is the earliest evidence of the Ghost Dance in practice?

The Ghost Dance is clearly in practice by 1869-1872 among the Paiute nation.

Who created the Ghost Dance?

The Ghost Dance first appeared in a vision of the Paiute prophet Wodziwob in 1869 and then again to the Paiute prophet Wovoka in 1889, who popularized the movement.

Is the Ghost Dance still practiced today?

Yes. The Ghost Dance is still practiced by Native American nations today, notably the Caddo.

Ghost Dance Timeline

Definition

The Ghost Dance (Spirit Dance) is an expression of rebirth and renewal using the traditional Native American circle dance, first practiced by the Paiute Nation in 1869 and again in 1889 when it was adopted by other Plains Indians nations. US government agents' fear of the dance led to the Wounded Knee Massacre of 1890.

More about: Ghost Dance

Timeline

1869 - c. 1872
Paiute Prophet Wodziwob preaches the vision of the Ghost Dance.
1889
The Ghost Dance movement gains adherents; Sitting Bull supports but does not participate.
1889
Paiute Prophet Wovoka starts to popularize the vision of the Ghost Dance.
1889 - 1890
Many Plains Indian nations embrace the Ghost Dance; US authorities interpret this as prelude to war.
c. 1890 - c. 1914
The Ghost Dance continues to be practiced by Plains Indians Nations.
15 Dec 1890
Sitting Bull is killed while allegedly resisting arrest at Standing Rock Agency Reservation.
29 Dec 1890
Wounded Knee Massacre triggered by tensions surrounding The Ghost Dance.