What did the Dakota tribe call themselves?

The Dakota tribe referred to themselves by several names, including Ikčé Wičhášta and Dakhóta Oyáte.

Autonyms of the Dakota People

The Dakota people use specific terms to identify themselves, reflecting their rich cultural and linguistic heritage. These terms are deeply rooted in their language and provide insight into their self-perception.

Key Autonyms and Their Meanings

• Ikčé Wičhášta: This term directly translates to "Indian people," signifying their identity as original inhabitants of the land.
• Dakhóta Oyáte: This translates to "Dakota people," a direct self-identification emphasizing their tribal name.
• The word Dakota itself carries significant meaning within their language, translating to "ally or friend." This highlights the importance of relationships and community within their culture.

The table below summarizes these important self-designations:

For more comprehensive information regarding the Dakota people and their history, resources such as Wikipedia provide extensive details.