South Dakota is home to several distinct Native American tribes, predominantly those belonging to the Sioux Nation. These sovereign nations maintain a strong presence and rich cultural heritage throughout the state.
The Sioux Nation's Presence
The majority of federally recognized tribes in South Dakota are branches or divisions of the larger Sioux (Oceti Sakowin or Seven Council Fires) Nation, which includes the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota peoples. These tribes have historical and contemporary ties to the lands within South Dakota, with reservations covering significant portions of the state.
The nine federally recognized Native American tribes with reservations located, in part or entirely, within South Dakota include:
- Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe: Primarily Lakota, located in the north-central part of the state.
- Crow Creek Sioux Tribe: Primarily Dakota, situated along the Missouri River.
- Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe: Primarily Dakota, located in eastern South Dakota.
- Lower Brule Sioux Tribe: Primarily Lakota, also along the Missouri River.
- Oglala Sioux Tribe: One of the largest Lakota tribes, located on the Pine Ridge Reservation in southwestern South Dakota.
- Rosebud Sioux Tribe (Sicangu Lakota Oyate): Another significant Lakota tribe, located in south-central South Dakota.
- Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate: Primarily Dakota, located in the northeastern part of the state.
- Standing Rock Sioux Tribe: A large Lakota and Dakota tribe, with land spanning the border of North and South Dakota.
- Yankton Sioux Tribe: Primarily Nakota, located in southeastern South Dakota.
These tribes play a vital role in the cultural, social, and economic landscape of South Dakota, preserving their languages, traditions, and self-governance.
