Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Leonard Peltier

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 2, 2025

From career breakthroughs to professional milestones, explore how Leonard Peltier made an impact.

Leonard Peltier, a Native American activist and member of AIM, was convicted of the 1975 murders of two FBI agents during a shootout on the Pine Ridge Reservation. He maintains his innocence. Sentenced to two life terms, his case has been a focal point of controversy and debate, with many believing him to be a political prisoner. After decades of incarceration, Peltier's sentence was commuted to indefinite house arrest on February 18, 2025.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1965: Relocation to Seattle

In 1965, Leonard Peltier relocated to Seattle, Washington, where he later worked as a welder, construction worker, and co-owned an auto shop.

1968: Founding of AIM

In 1968, the American Indian Movement (AIM) was founded by urban Indians in Minneapolis.

November 1972: Participation in the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Takeover

In November 1972, as an AIM member, Peltier participated in the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) takeover in Washington D.C., which began as a peace march called the "Trail of Broken Treaties". The event escalated due to BIA and security officials attempting to forcefully remove protestors.

1972: Joins American Indian Movement (AIM)

In 1972, Leonard Peltier became an official member of the American Indian Movement (AIM).

1975: Arrival at Oglala Nation to Protect Indigenous People

In 1975, Peltier arrived at the Oglala nation to help protect the Indigenous people living there who were being murdered. He and other AIM warriors were sent to defend the residents of the land, however, they were ambushed and forced to defend themselves.

1999: Publication of "Prison Writings: My Life Is My Sun Dance"

In 1999, Peltier's memoir, "Prison Writings: My Life Is My Sun Dance," was published, where he admitted to participating in the shootout but denied killing the FBI agents.

2004: Presidential Run

In 2004, Leonard Peltier ran for president of the United States. He won the nomination of the Peace and Freedom Party and received 27,607 votes in California.

2004: Peltier runs for president

In 2004, Leonard Peltier was the candidate for the Peace and Freedom Party for President of the United States, receiving 27,607 votes in California.

August 1, 2020: Withdrawal from Vice Presidential Ticket

On August 1, 2020, Leonard Peltier withdrew from the Party for Socialism and Liberation ticket for vice president due to health reasons.

August 2020: Peltier resigns from VP ticket

In early August 2020, Leonard Peltier was forced to resign from the ticket for health reasons from his position as Gloria La Riva's running mate, as VP, on the Party for Socialism and Liberation ticket and was replaced with Sunil Freeman.