Tatanka Mani Camp (TMC) was founded in 2000 by Gilbert Walking Bull, Diane Marie, and Marilynn Bradley to bring the beliefs and philosophies of the traditional Lakota way of life to the attention of the public. It is based on the values and practices of a people who, since the beginning of time, have had a deep respect for the earth, humankind, and the forces of creation.

Gilbert Walking Bull was raised by his paternal grandparents in Wanblee, South Dakota, on the Pine Ridge Reservation. He was raised in the old ways of the Lakota and was strong in the traditions of his people. He was kept out of government schools and had little exposure to American Culture, or even the English language, until 1946, when he was 16 years old.

He was the son of Charles Walking Bull (Rosebud Reservation) and Edna Weasel (Pine Ridge Reservation). His paternal grandfather was the Sacred Man, James Move Camp, and his maternal grandfather was Henry Weasel. Some of his relatives include Big Ribs, Blue Cloud, Bear Heels, Running Woman, Bear Killed Her, Iron Antelope, Spirit Woman, Red Breath Bear, and Fox Warrior.

Gilbert worked to connect people with the Lakota culture through the language, songs, and ceremonies for most of his life. During the past 3 decades he had taken his traditional teachings to communities, universities, and organizations throughout the United States.

Gilbert Walking Bull peacefully returned to the Spirit World on April 7, 2007.