Once again, this was an enthralling piece of history. One thing is obvious that the natives had a very deep connection with the surrounding land and perhaps even with the river itself. It seems that for past 12000 years the human binges and the river had grown together side by side.
It is also not surprising to know about the struggle of people to gain control over the natural resources of the region. Particularly when the region is full of natural resources and rich in life. That historical development of the region is filled with conflict and yet so much of it become the wealth of the region and even a reason for its prosperity.
The last tidbit of information was bit of a surprise. The payment for the Sacred Black Hills (taken when gold was discovered there) involving the Sioux tribes........... I had no idea that there was a possibility that of this payment exists, then it might be in billions of dollars.
It has been in litigation for over 100 years. The government offered a relatively minor tribe a payment of $20 million. They never accepted the payment, the government never paid. In the early 20th century a lawsuit was filed and the Tribe (s) won. The US Government was forced to pay. The tribes (all the tribes, this time) refused the payment. The money has been earning interest at the same rate as US Treasury bills ever since. It is a significant amount today.
I do not see any of the Sioux tribes ever accepting that payment. They contend that the several Laramie treaties guarantee them the hills forever. They want the hills back.
I understand their desires. The Black Hills are among my favorite places, too.
Thanks for a wonderful comment.
I think, I can understand the need to have a part of your history and heritage back. Choosing heritage over money is a rare thing these days and I can only show respect to that attitude