DT Lakota War Horse Card

Horse--Sunka Wakan Represents: Power and Freedom

Many refer to the Lakota the "Horse Nation". Horses first appeared on Sioux winter counts in about 1700 for the Southern most bands. It only took about fifty years for all of the Lakota to master this new technology. The horse improved the everyday life of the Lakota by providing enhanced travel, hunting and warfare. 

The horse for a Lakota was an asset both monetarily and in prestige. Horses were often used as gifts or for trade. Both men and women could own their own horse by earning it or by capture in a raid. A Lakota took great pride in a good buffalo hunting horse. He would train the fastest and smartest of his horse to use only for a buffalo hunt or battle.

A good warrior was loyal to his horse and his horse, loyal to him. He would promise to decorate and parade him with the sacred symbols of the Lakota if he would perform well. These decorations along with prayer would protect the horse and give him supernatural powers.