U.S. v. Indian WarsChapter 12

Battle of the Washita

•Cheyenne Chief Black Kettle allows “wanted” Indians to settle in his camp during winter (1868)

•U.S. Army General Custer is committed to finding the “wanted” even during winter

•Surprise attack on peaceful camp—killing many women and children

Ghost Dance Movement

•Religious movement among Indians during 1860s to 1890s

•Belief that an Indian “Messiah” figure would come forth to defeat whites

•Belief that God would protect Indian warriors in battle and prevent them from being wounded.

•Wavoka emerges as “Messiah” figure

Battle of Little Big Horn

•Sitting Bull & Sioux followers leave South Dakota reservation; flee to Montana (1876)

•Chased down by Gen. Custer•Sioux & other tribes outnumber and out

maneuver Custer; wiping out the 7th Cavalry•Known as “Custer’s Last Stand”

Battle of Wounded Knee

•Massive attack by U.S. Army on Sioux in South Dakota (1890)

•Killing of Chief Sitting Bull & Wavoka•Last of the major wars between U.S.

government and Indians•End of the Ghost Dance Movement