Reuben Snake facts for kids

Reuben Alvis Snake, Jr. (1937–1993) was an important Ho-Chunk (Winnebago) leader from the United States. He was known as an activist, a teacher, and a spiritual guide. He worked hard to protect the rights of Native Americans.

Snake was a leader in the American Indian Movement (AIM) during the 1970s. Later, in the 1980s, he led the National Congress of American Indians. He strongly supported the American Indian Religious Freedom Act. This law was passed after his death in 1994. He also spoke up for the use of peyote in religious ceremonies.

Early Life and Education

Reuben Alvis Snake, Jr. was born on January 12, 1937. His birthplace was the Winnebago Indian Reservation in Thurston County, Nebraska. His parents were Reuben Harold and Virginia Greyhair Snake.

In 1950, he briefly studied at the Haskell Institute. This school is now known as Haskell Indian Nations University. He left college and joined the United States Army. He served from 1956 to 1958 and left the army honorably.

A Leader for Native American Rights

Reuben Snake was a key figure in many important events. He fought for Native American rights throughout his career.

Standing Up for Native Americans

In August 1970, Snake took part in a protest. Native Americans occupied Mount Rushmore, which they called "Mount Crazy Horse." In 1972, he became the national chairman of the American Indian Movement (AIM). AIM is a civil rights group focused on Native Americans. He also helped lead the Trail of Broken Treaties in 1972. This was a cross-country protest for Native American rights.

Spiritual and Tribal Leadership

Starting in 1974, Snake became a spiritual leader. He was a "roadman" in the Native American Church. A roadman guides peyote ceremonies. In 1975, he was chosen as the chairman of the Winnebago tribe. From 1985 to 1987, Snake served as the president of the National Congress of American Indians. He also taught culture classes at the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA).

Fighting for Religious Freedom

Snake worked to change a court decision called Employment Division v. Smith (1990). This decision made it harder for Native Americans to practice their religion freely. He organized the Native American Religious Freedom Project. This group worked to get a national law passed. His efforts led to the 1994 amendment to the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. This new law was called the American Indian Religious Freedom Act.

Legacy and Impact

Reuben Snake faced health challenges throughout his life. He had two heart attacks and diabetes by age 40. He passed away on June 28, 1993, at 56 years old.

A Lasting Impact

Just one year after his death, his hard work paid off. President Bill Clinton signed the American Indian Religious Freedom Act. This law made it legal to use peyote in religious ceremonies. This was a huge victory for Native American religious freedom.

Remembering His Wisdom

Reuben Snake's life and work are remembered in many ways. A book about him was published after his death. It is called Your Humble Serpent: The Wisdom of Reuben Snake. There was also a documentary film with the same title. His important papers and items are kept at the National Museum of the American Indian. This museum is in Washington, D.C.