Richard Oakes was a prominent Native American activist known for his role in the Alcatraz Island occupation in 1969. He was a member of the Mohawk Nation and became a key figure in advocating for Indigenous rights and sovereignty. Oakes and other activists occupied the island to draw attention to issues faced by Native Americans, including land rights and cultural preservation. Oakes was born in 1942 and grew up in New York. His activism extended beyond Alcatraz, as he worked to promote education and awareness about Native American issues. Tragically, Oakes' life was cut short when he was murdered in 1972, but his legacy continues to inspire Indigenous movements today.