AIM Begins Occupation of Wounded Knee

1973: The American Indian Movement (AIM) begins its occupation of Wounded Knee, South Dakota over issues of poor conditions on reservations, native rights and treaty violations. This would begin a 71-day standoff with the US government. During the standoff, Marlon Brando refused to accept his Oscar for The Godfather in support of their actions and in protest over the poor treatment of natives in the film industry.