In 1877, Standing Bear and his people, the Ponca (Indians), were forcibly removed from their land in northern Nebraska and sent to Indian Territory. Since no provision for food or shelter had been made for them, a number of the tribe, including Standing Bear's son, did not survive the harsh winter. In defiance of the relocation order, Standing Bear decided to return to Nebraska with his people. Not long after visiting relatives near Omaha, the Ponca were arrested. With the help of local Indian rights activists, Standing Bear sued in district court for the right to return home. The judge found in favor of Standing Bear, giving the rights of a U.S. citizen to a Native American for the first time. The scenario asks the student to become part of a team of four investigative reporters working for an eastern newspaper. The assignment is to assemble a portfolio of interviews and background information relevant to the case for newspaper publication. The story's background includes a look at the policy of Indian removal, the current state of the war with the Plains Indians, and the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Learning advice details four steps to follow: (1) gather information; (2) create a graphic organizer; (3) write your story; and (4) interview your subject. The teacher notes section defines grade/unit; addresses California history/social science standards; and discusses history/social science analysis skills. Resource lists appear throughout the activity guide. (BT)