Military & Warriors · 19th Century
Sitting Bull’s Last Words
“I am not going. Do with me what you like. Come on! Take action! Let's go!”— Sitting Bull, December 15, 1890
Who Was Sitting Bull?
Sitting Bull was a Hunkpapa Lakota leader who led his people in resistance to U.S. government policies. He defeated General Custer at the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876.
The Final Moments
Indian Agency police attempted to arrest Sitting Bull at his cabin on Standing Rock Reservation. He resisted and was shot during the struggle.
Are These Words Verified?
Reported by witnesses present during the confrontation, though accounts vary. Consistent with his resistance to arrest and documented in official reports.
Sources
- other Indian Agency police reports
- biography Robert Utley 'The Lance and the Shield'
- biography Stanley Vestal 'Sitting Bull: Champion of the Sioux'
Legacy
Sitting Bull remains a symbol of Native American resistance and sovereignty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Sitting Bull’s last words?
“I am not going. Do with me what you like. Come on! Take action! Let's go!”
How did Sitting Bull die?
Sitting Bull died on December 15, 1890 at the age of 59. Cause of death: Shot by Indian Agency police.
Were Sitting Bull’s last words documented?
Reported by witnesses present during the confrontation, though accounts vary. Consistent with his resistance to arrest and documented in official reports.
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