John Lone Bull, Sioux Boy, 1900, by Heyn and Matzen

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With family as one of the key focuses of Sioux life, children were especially revered. Called "Wakanisha" (Waka meaning sacredness) they were the center of attention in the family, which included all their aunts and uncles, who they also referred to as "mother" and "father."  As young children the boys played with miniature bows and arrows while the girls played with deer skin dolls and toy tepees. It was the "job" of their immediate and extended families to teach them the skills they would need in adulthood. By the time they were 13, they were active members of the tribe and usually married between the ages of 12-15.

This young Sioux boy's name was John Lone Bull.

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The Great Sioux Nation

Myths & Legends of the Sioux

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