From 1850 - 1890, Sitting Bull symbolized the conflict between settlers and native American culture over lifestyles, land and resources. Sitting Bull led the Sioux resistance against U.S. incursion into Indian lands, resistance that often ended in battle. After the battle at Little Big Horn, in which General Custer's forces were annihilated, Sitting Bull left the U.S. for Saskatchewan.

Sitting Bull claimed that to the Sioux, the American and Canadian sides of the border were traditional hunting grounds. On this basis, he claimed the Sioux were as much Canadian Indians as American. The Sioux had been loyal to Britain during the battles for New France, and through the War of 1812. Sitting Bull had a set of medals given to his grandfather by George III for his support in the American Revolutionary War. Sitting Bull wanted to live under protection of Canadian law and be granted Canadian land.

Sir John A. Macdonald's government refused to provide Sitting Bull with land, food or support. They saw the Sioux as American Indians persuaded to them leave. The Blackfoot, Cree and Assiniboine also felt the Sioux should leave, and accused them of stealing their buffalo.

The famous meeting between Sitting Bull, NWMP Commissioner Macleod and Major Walsh, and U.S. General Terry took place in 1877 at Fort Walsh, Saskatchewan.