Oglala Lakota County, South Dakota

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== Oglala Lakota County, South Dakota ==

Oglala Lakota County is a county located in the southwestern part of the U.S. state of South Dakota. The county was originally named Shannon County but was renamed in 2015 to honor the Oglala Lakota people, a sub-tribe of the Lakota people. The county seat is Hot Springs, although the administrative offices are located in Pine Ridge.

History[edit | edit source]

Oglala Lakota County was established in 1875. The county was named after Peter C. Shannon, a chief justice of the Dakota Territory. In 2015, the county was renamed to Oglala Lakota County to reflect the heritage and culture of the Oglala Lakota people who reside in the area.

Geography[edit | edit source]

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 2,097 square miles (5,430 km²), of which 2,094 square miles (5,420 km²) is land and 3.1 square miles (8.0 km²) (0.1%) is water. The county is part of the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, which is one of the largest Indian reservations in the United States.

Demographics[edit | edit source]

As of the 2020 census, the population of Oglala Lakota County was 13,672. The county has a predominantly Native American population, with the majority being members of the Oglala Lakota tribe. The county has a high rate of poverty and unemployment compared to national averages.

Government and Politics[edit | edit source]

Oglala Lakota County is governed by a board of county commissioners. The county is unique in that it does not have its own courthouse; instead, it contracts with neighboring Fall River County for judicial services. The county is part of the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, which has its own tribal government.

Education[edit | edit source]

The county is served by several school districts, including the Oglala Lakota County School District and the Bureau of Indian Education schools. Higher education opportunities are available at Oglala Lakota College, which offers a range of degree programs and vocational training.

Economy[edit | edit source]

The economy of Oglala Lakota County is primarily based on agriculture, government services, and tourism. The county is home to several historical and cultural sites, including the Wounded Knee Massacre site and the Red Cloud Indian School.