Crazy Horse Fights Last Battle

This Day in History: January 8, 1877

Alleged photo of Crazy Horse in 1877
en.wikipedia.org

There is so much history to be explored that led up to this day. Crazy Horse and his band of warriors refused surrender in spite of starvation and severe illness. On this day in 1877, Crazy Horse led his warriors into their final battle against the U.S. Cavalry: the Battle of Wolf Mountain in the Montana territory. Even amid harsh winter weather, outnumbered, weak, starving, low on ammunition using outdated weapons to defend themselves, the warriors continued into battle.

"Although a draw in many aspects, in effect the battle was a strategic victory for the U.S. Army, as it demonstrated that the Indians were not safe from the army even in winter and harsh conditions. Many individuals began slipping away and returning to their reservations. By May, Crazy Horse had led his surviving band into Camp Robinson to surrender." Source: en.wikipedia.org

Crazy Horse, legendary warrior and leader of the Lakota Sioux, will long be remembered for his ferocity in battle. His determination to preserve Native American traditions and way of life will always be remembered and revered.

"The Custer Fight" by Charles Marion Russell.
Source: en.wikipedia.org

Prior to this date, there had been much resistance toward the Sioux being forced onto reservations. As a result, Crazy Horse fought along side Sitting Bull, as well as many other tribal leaders, in the American-Indian Wars. He was instrumental in the defeat of George Armstrong Custer's forces at the Battle of the Little Bighorn. 


The rest of the story...Crazy Horse did not die in battle as one might think considering his warrior background and status. After surrendering to federal troops in May, 1877, Crazy Horse was killed on September 7 amid rumors of a planned escape. Within the annals of history is record of Crazy Horse's need to take his sick wife to her parents but the problem was that he left the reservation without authorization. General George Crook ordered Crazy Horse arrested for fear he was plotting a return to battle. Crazy Horse did not resist arrest at first. However, when he realized he was being led to a guardhouse, he began to struggle. It was during that struggle the great warrior lost his life. While his arms were held by one of the arresting officers, a soldier ran him through with a bayonet. A death unbefitting to an Indian chief, a great warrior who had proven himself mighty in battle.

Crazy Horse Memorial

A model of the planned statue,
with the Crazy Horse Memorial in the background.
Source: en.wikipedia.org

With construction having begun in 1948, the Crazy Horse Memorial is still a work in progress and far from completion. Amid much controversy and opposition, progress is slow. Upon completion, the memorial will consist of the mountain carving (monument), the Indian Museum of North America, and the Native American Cultural Center. The monument is being carved out of Thunderhead Mountain and if completed, stands to possibly be the world's largest sculpture.