How has Leonard Peltier’s case impacted Native American rights and activism?

Leonard Peltier, a Native American activist, became a symbol in the fight for indigenous rights. His 1977 conviction for the murder of two FBI agents and the irregularities surrounding his extradition and trial, turned his case into a cause célèbre.

Peltier’s supporters spent decades lobbying for his parole or presidential clemency, viewing him as a political prisoner. His activism began after experiencing the U.S. government policy of termination, which aimed to assimilate Native Americans into Euro-American society by withdrawing federal assistance. He later joined the American Indian Movement (AIM) and participated in protests and rights actions.