Ep 1. Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee

Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee Season 1, Episode 1: Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee

The premiere episode of Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee introduces viewers to a significant period in American history, as it follows the stories of several Native American tribes and figures during the late 19th century. The episode begins by examining the Treaty of Fort Laramie, which was signed in 1868 and promised the land rights of the Sioux tribe in the Black Hills region of South Dakota. However, with the discovery of gold in the area, the treaty was ignored and violated by the U.S. government, leading to conflict between the Sioux and American soldiers.

Throughout the episode, we're introduced to a number of key figures on both sides of this conflict. One such figure is Charles Eastman (Adam Beach), a young Sioux boy who is taken from his tribe and enrolled in a boarding school where he is forced to abandon his native traditions and assimilate into white American culture. As Eastman grows older, we see his struggles with identity and the racism he experiences within both Native American and white communities.

We also meet Sitting Bull (August Schellenberg), the famed Sioux warrior who becomes a thorn in the side of the American army as he rallies his people against their oppressors. Sitting Bull's charisma and leadership qualities are evident from the start, as we see him lead his people in prayer and engage in tribal rituals with conviction and grace. His conflict with General Custer is a prominent thread throughout the episode, culminating in the infamous Battle of Little Bighorn.

Meanwhile, on the American side, we meet General William Tecumseh Sherman (Peter Fonda), who is tasked with overseeing the U.S. Army's efforts to subdue the Native American tribes. Sherman's views on the Sioux and other tribes are depicted as racist and dismissive, as he calls for their extermination and promotes the idea of "civilizing" them through forceful assimilation.

The episode is not only a study of historical events but also explores the emotional toll of the conflict on both sides. Sitting Bull struggles to come to terms with the loss of his people and becomes increasingly disillusioned with the U.S. government, while soldiers like Captain Richard Pratt (J.K. Simmons) begin to question the brutality of their actions.

Overall, the premiere episode of Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee is a gripping and emotionally charged introduction to a pivotal moment in American history. The show promises to delve deeper into the personal stories of these historical figures as it continues, providing a new perspective on a time when American ideals clashed with inhumane policies towards Native Americans.