Why Did the Bureau of Indian Affairs Ban the Ghost Dance? And Its Impact on Native American Culture

In the late 19th century, the Ghost Dance movement was a significant cultural phenomenon among Native Americans. It was a religious and cultural expression that merged traditional Native American beliefs with the influences of Christianity and other external forces. The dance was a form of protest against the oppressive policies of the U.S. government and a means to revive the cultural identity of Native Americans. However, due to its perceived potential for unrest and disharmony, the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) ultimately banned the Ghost Dance.

1. The Origin and Growth of the Ghost Dance The Ghost Dance originated as a way for Native Americans to cope with the traumas of colonization and displacement. It was a form of cultural expression that combined traditional Native American rituals with Christian elements, creating a unique blend of religious practices. The dance soon spread across the Great Plains, where it became a powerful form of protest against the BIA’s policies, particularly those that threatened Native American lands and culture.

2. The BIA’s Reasons for Banning the Ghost Dance The BIA’s decision to ban the Ghost Dance was multifaceted. Firstly, it was concerned about the potential for unrest and conflict that such a dance might cause, given its association with protest against government policies. Secondly, the BIA viewed the Ghost Dance as a threat to its efforts in “civilizing” Native Americans, as it encouraged traditional cultural practices that might impede the assimilation of Native Americans into American society.

3. The Impact on Native American Culture The banning of the Ghost Dance was a significant blow to Native American culture. It not only deprived Native Americans of a powerful means of expression but also highlighted the struggle to maintain cultural identity under external pressure. However, while some aspects of traditional culture were suppressed, they did not fully disappear. Native Americans continued to resist against assimilation through other means, thus ensuring that their culture survived despite such bans.

Moreover, many saw in the Ghost Dance an embodiment of traditional Native American values such as unity, resilience, and strength in adversity. Although banned by the BIA, these values persisted in various forms within Native American communities. The legacy of the Ghost Dance lives on in various cultural expressions today, reflecting a deep-rooted resilience and pride in Native American culture despite external pressures and challenges.

4. A Complex Debate The banning of the Ghost Dance continues to be a subject of debate among historians and cultural experts. Some argue that it was necessary to maintain social harmony and stabilize a situation that could potentially erupt into conflict. Others view it as an example of government oppression against Native American culture and rights. Regardless of perspectives, it remains an integral part of Native American history and culture that continues to shape the identity of Native Americans today.

Related Q&A: Q: What was the purpose of the Ghost Dance? A: The Ghost Dance was a form of religious and cultural expression among Native Americans that aimed to revive their cultural identity and protest against oppressive policies of the U.S. government.

Q: Why did the BIA ban the Ghost Dance? A: The BIA banned the Ghost Dance due to concerns about potential unrest and conflict it might cause, as well as its perceived threat to efforts in “civilizing” Native Americans.

Q: How did the banning of the Ghost Dance affect Native American culture? A: The banning of the Ghost Dance was a significant blow to Native American culture, depriving them of a powerful means of expression and highlighting the struggle to maintain cultural identity under external pressure. However, it did not fully eradicate traditional values and culture, which persisted in various forms within Native American communities.