# Russell Means > Oglala Lakota activist for the rights of Native American people (1939-2012) **Wikidata**: [Q319799](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q319799) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russell_Means) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/russell-means ## Summary Russell Means was an Oglala Lakota activist, actor, and musician who fought for Native American rights in the United States. Born in 1939, he became a prominent figure in the American Indian Movement (AIM) and later in Hollywood, where he advocated for Indigenous representation. His activism and performances helped raise awareness about Native American issues. ## Biography - Born: November 10, 1939, in Pine Ridge, South Dakota - Nationality: American - Education: Attended the University of South Dakota and the University of North Dakota - Known for: Activism for Native American rights and advocacy for Indigenous representation in media - Employer(s): American Indian Movement (AIM), Hollywood film and television industry - Field(s): Activism, acting, music, politics ## Contributions Russell Means was a key figure in the American Indian Movement (AIM), founded in 1968, which advocated for Native American civil rights. He participated in protests and demonstrations, including the 1972 occupation of Wounded Knee, where AIM members sought to reclaim their land and rights. Means also worked as an actor and musician, appearing in films and television shows, and releasing albums that highlighted Indigenous culture. His activism and performances helped bring attention to Native American issues and contributed to broader cultural and political discussions. ## FAQs **What was Russell Means' role in the American Indian Movement (AIM)?** Russell Means was a prominent activist in the American Indian Movement (AIM), which he helped found in 1968. He participated in key protests and demonstrations, including the 1972 occupation of Wounded Knee, where AIM members sought to reclaim their land and rights. **What types of media did Russell Means work in?** Russell Means worked as an actor and musician. He appeared in films and television shows, and he released albums that highlighted Indigenous culture. His work in media helped advocate for Indigenous representation. **What was Russell Means' educational background?** Russell Means attended the University of South Dakota and the University of North Dakota. His education provided him with the foundation to engage in activism and creative work. ## Why They Matter Russell Means mattered as a pioneer in Native American activism and a voice for Indigenous rights. His work with the American Indian Movement (AIM) helped bring attention to the struggles of Native Americans and contributed to broader cultural and political discussions. His activism and performances in media helped advocate for Indigenous representation, influencing future generations of activists and artists. Means' legacy continues to inspire efforts to address Native American issues and promote cultural awareness. ## Notable For - Founding member of the American Indian Movement (AIM) in 1968 - Key participant in the 1972 occupation of Wounded Knee - Advocate for Indigenous representation in media - Actor and musician who highlighted Indigenous culture in films and music - Prominent figure in Native American activism and politics ## Body ### Early Life and Education Russell Means was born on November 10, 1939, in Pine Ridge, South Dakota. He grew up in a community deeply affected by colonialism and discrimination. Means attended the University of South Dakota and the University of North Dakota, where he developed an interest in activism and creative expression. ### Activism and the American Indian Movement (AIM) Russell Means became a founding member of the American Indian Movement (AIM) in 1968. AIM was formed to advocate for Native American civil rights and to address issues such as land rights, education, and healthcare. Means participated in key protests and demonstrations, including the 1972 occupation of Wounded Knee. The occupation was a significant event in Native American history, where AIM members sought to reclaim their land and rights. Means' involvement in AIM helped bring attention to the struggles of Native Americans and contributed to broader cultural and political discussions. ### Acting and Music Career In addition to his activism, Russell Means worked as an actor and musician. He appeared in films and television shows, advocating for Indigenous representation in media. Means also released albums that highlighted Indigenous culture, contributing to the broader cultural landscape. His work in media helped raise awareness about Native American issues and influenced future generations of activists and artists. ### Influence and Legacy Russell Means' influence extended beyond his activism and creative work. He became a prominent figure in Native American politics and culture, advocating for Indigenous rights and representation. Means' legacy continues to inspire efforts to address Native American issues and promote cultural awareness. His work with AIM and in media helped shape the broader cultural and political discussions surrounding Native American rights. ### Later Life and Death Russell Means passed away on October 22, 2012. His death marked the end of an era in Native American activism and cultural expression. Means' contributions to activism, media, and politics left a lasting impact on the Native American community and the broader cultural landscape. His legacy continues to inspire efforts to address Native American issues and promote cultural awareness. ## References 1. Virtual International Authority File 2. BnF authorities 3. Czech National Authority Database 4. International Standard Name Identifier 5. MusicBrainz 6. SNAC 7. Find a Grave 8. [Russell Means, Indian activist, actor, dies at 72. USA Today](http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2012/10/22/russell-means-indian-activist-actor-dies-at-72/1649177) 9. Means, Russell Charles (10 November 1939–22 October 2012) 10. Discogs 11. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 12. [BnF authorities](http://data.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/cb12918050p) 13. CONOR.SI 14. The Movie Database 15. [Russell Means - Behind The Voice Actors](https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Russell-Means/)