When did the Sioux religion begin?

The Sioux religion, rooted in the spiritual beliefs and practices of the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota tribes, has origins that predate European contact, likely developing over centuries as a result of the tribes' interactions with their environment and each other. Key elements, such as the reverence for the Great Spirit and the importance of rituals like the Sun Dance, have been integral to their cultural identity for generations. While it is challenging to pinpoint an exact beginning, the Sioux spiritual traditions have been continuously practiced and adapted since ancient times.