Wovoka and the Ghost Dance
By: researched, compiled, and written by Michael Hittman ; edited by Don Lynch.
Contributors: Lynch, Don.
Edition: Expanded ed.
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press
Published: 1997
Place of publication: Lincoln
Language: eng
Number of pages: 373
Subjects: Wovoka, ca. 1856-1932; Ghost dance; Paiute Indians -- Biography
Description: The religious fervor known as the Ghost Dance movement was precipitated by the prophecies and teachings of a northern Paiute Indian named Wovoka (Jack Wilson). During a solar eclipse on New Year's Day, 1889, Wovoka experienced a revelation that promised harmony, rebirth, and freedom for Native Americans through the repeated performance of the traditional Ghost Dance.

In 1890 his message spread rapidly among tribes, developing an intensity that alarmed the federal government and ended in tragedy at Wounded Knee. While the Ghost Dance phenomenon is well known, never before has its founder received such full and authoritative treatment. Indispensable for understanding the prophet behind the messianic movement, Wovoka and the Ghost Dance addresses for the first time basic questions about his message and life.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. 361-373).
Originally published: Yerington, Nev. : Yerington Paiute Tribe ; Carson City, Nev. : Grace Dangberg Foundation, 1990.