Guardians of the Oglala Nation facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Guardians of the Oglala Nation |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Active | 1972-1976 |
| Country |  Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, United States |
| Size | ~60 militants |
| Nickname(s) | GOON's |
| Disbanded | Yes |
The Guardians of the Oglala Nation (GOONs) was a special group formed in 1972. It was like a private police force. The group was created by Dick Wilson, who was the elected leader of the Oglala Sioux Tribe.
The GOONs operated on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in the early 1970s. Their main job was to support Dick Wilson and his decisions. The group was ended in 1976 when a new tribal leader was chosen.
Contents
How the GOONs Were Formed
In November 1972, the Oglala Sioux Tribal Council made some important decisions. This happened after a protest in Washington, D.C. Members of the American Indian Movement (AIM) had taken over a government building. Some records were damaged during this event.
The Tribal Council criticized AIM for the damage. They said it hurt many Native American tribes. The Council then gave their leader, Dick Wilson, special power. He could take any steps needed to keep peace on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.
Wilson used this power to create the GOONs. People who disagreed with Wilson called them "the goon squad." The tribal government paid for the GOONs. Some people claimed the money came from a road safety program. The GOONs were soon accused of bothering people who did not support Wilson. They were also accused of violence against them.
The GOONs During Wounded Knee
On February 27, 1973, a major protest happened. Local Oglala people and AIM activists took over the village of Wounded Knee, South Dakota. They were protesting against Dick Wilson's leadership. This led to a 71-day standoff with law enforcement. Federal police forces were sent to the reservation.
During this time, the GOONs were involved. They exchanged gunfire with the protesters. The GOONs also set up their own roadblocks. The FBI worked closely with Dick Wilson and his group. Mr. Wilson was known for his unfair actions and misuse of power.
What Happened After Wounded Knee
After the Wounded Knee standoff ended in 1973, peace was hoped for. However, fighting continued between the GOONs and AIM members. AIM said that many people died violently on the reservation in the next three years. This number has been debated by others.
The GOONs were accused of causing harm and setting fires. During the 1974 tribal election, the GOONs' actions caused concern. A government report described a "climate of fear and tension." Dick Wilson was re-elected in 1974. There were claims of unfair voting and other problems.
The violence on the reservation grew worse. Many people who opposed the tribal government were said to have died. In 2000, the FBI looked into these deaths. They reported that most deaths were accounted for. They also said that some deaths were not murders.
In 1976, Al Trimble was elected as the new tribal leader. His main goal was to stop the GOONs. As soon as he took office, he cut off all their money. The GOONs then disappeared shortly after.
See also
In Spanish: Guardians of the Oglala Nation para niños
