What did Wovoka claim would occur if the Ghost Dance was performed correctly?

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Study for the Texas AandM University HIST106 Exam. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations. Gear up for success!

Wovoka, a Northern Paiute religious leader, introduced the Ghost Dance movement in response to the hardships faced by Native Americans in the late 19th century. He claimed that if the Ghost Dance was performed correctly, it would bring about a renewal of the earth and the resurrection of deceased ancestors. This belief was rooted in the idea that the living would reunite with the spirits of the dead, leading to a restoration of peace and prosperity for the Native American peoples.

The significance of this claim lies in its emotional and spiritual appeal during a time of significant turmoil and oppression for Indigenous communities. It provided hope and a sense of purpose, suggesting that through collective action in the form of dance, they could influence the world around them positively.

The other options do not accurately reflect Wovoka's teachings. For instance, the notion that the dead would remain lost forever contradicts the foundational belief of the Ghost Dance, which focused on reconnecting with ancestors. Claims of immunity to technology or encouragement of battles against white settlers also diverge from the peaceful intentions of the movement, which sought to achieve reconciliation and spiritual renewal rather than outright conflict.