A Cycle of the West · Character

Sitting Bull

A Hunkpapa holy man and resistance leader whose name becomes a rallying cry from the Little Horn to the far reaches of the Sioux country.

supporting

Also known as Bull

First appearance: The Song of the Indian Wars

As a supporting figure in A Cycle of the West, Sitting Bull is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

Sitting Bull is portrayed as a spiritual leader and strategist who united tribes against the U.S.

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Sitting Bull is the spiritual and strategic center of the Lakota resistance, the leader whose presence at the Greasy Grass turns a gathering of bands into a wall against the cavalry. The poem reaches him obliquely, through rumor and the fear that chatters along the talking wire, so that he looms as much as a legend as a man. His refusal to be chained, and the awe he inspires even in those who hunt him, make him the moral counterweight to Custer's bright advance.

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Character Web

9 connections

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Relationship types

Other

Character groups

Major Figures of the Indian Wars
Protagonist
Key Figures in Conflict
Ashley Expedition Members

+4 more in the full Character Web

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Closing

This is the story's dramatic climax because it marks the psychological and emotional peak of despair for the S…

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In the story

Sitting Bull appears across 7 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

The Song of the Indian Wars
Sitting Bull is portrayed as a spiritual leader and strategist who united tribes against the U.S. Army, particularly before the Little Bighorn.
The Song of the Indian Wars
Mentioned as a leader shepherding his people on the Tongue and Powder rivers, his 'weird medicine' is strong and draws young warriors.
III: The Council on the Powder
Delivers a stirring speech against white settlers, advocating for resistance and war.
VIII: The Yellow God
Listed alongside Crazy Horse and Gall as a leader of the Sioux who still hold to the old ways.
X: The Sun Dance
His 'weird medicine' is strong; he is a central figure in the gathering.
XIII: The Twilight
Reported by Spotted Tail as defeated and driven across the line.
XIV: The Death of Crazy Horse
Mentioned as a destination for Joseph's flight.

Chapter companion notes

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See Sitting Bull in The Song of the Indian Wars