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Today in History: Native American Activists Start 19-Month Alcatraz Occupation

11/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On November 20, 1969, a group of 89 Native American activists, led by Richard Oakes and LaNada Means, initiated a 19-month occupation of Alcatraz Island, claiming it as abandoned federal land. The protest aimed to highlight issues faced by Indigenous peoples and ended when the U.S. government forcibly removed the occupiers.

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Story summary

On November 20, 1969, a group of 89 Native American activists, led by Richard Oakes and LaNada Means, initiated a 19-month occupation of Alcatraz Island, claiming it as abandoned federal land. The protest aimed to highlight issues faced by Indigenous peoples and ended when the U.S. government forcibly removed the occupiers.