The Lakota Language

English is the primary language used by the Lakota people.  However, many older men (and some women) use the Lakota language between themselves.  Some Lakota people are concerned that their language is another element of their past culture that will disappear in a generation or two.  Here is a sample of their language and the translation:

Man Rescued by the Eagles
Lakota
 Ehanjni heches oyate wanj iglalcaayinj na wana ethipi yunjkhanj wichasa wanj hawicu kinj heciya:   "Winuhca, itho waye mni kte io eya."

English
Long ago, the tribe was moving camp and were erecting their tipis at the new place when a man said to his wife "Wife, I think I must go out and hunt."





Alternative play method