Battle of the Little Bighorn

Definition

The Battle of the Little Bighorn, fought on June 25-26, 1876, was a significant conflict between the U.S. Army, led by Lieutenant Colonel George Custer, and a coalition of Native American tribes, primarily Lakota Sioux and Cheyenne. This battle marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle over land and sovereignty, reflecting the shifting alliances among Native tribes as they united against encroaching settlers and U.S. military forces.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The battle occurred during the Great Sioux War, a response to the U.S. government's violation of treaties and encroachment on Native lands.
2. Custer led the 7th Cavalry into battle with an estimated 210 soldiers but faced an overwhelming force of approximately 2,000 Native warriors.
3. The defeat of Custer's troops at Little Bighorn was one of the most significant victories for Native American forces in U.S. history.
4. Following this battle, the U.S. government intensified military campaigns against Native tribes, leading to further loss of land and autonomy.
5. The battle is often remembered for its representation of shifting alliances among tribes as they united against common threats from settlers and military forces.

Review Questions

• How did shifting alliances among Native American tribes contribute to the events leading up to the Battle of the Little Bighorn?
  • Shifting alliances among Native American tribes were crucial in the lead-up to the Battle of the Little Bighorn as various tribes united in response to shared grievances against U.S. expansionism. The Lakota Sioux, along with Cheyenne and other tribes, coordinated their efforts to resist encroachment on their lands. This collaboration exemplified how tribal leaders recognized the need for unity in face of a common adversary, which ultimately culminated in their formidable resistance during the battle.
• Discuss the implications of Custer's defeat at the Battle of the Little Bighorn on U.S.-Native American relations moving forward.
  • Custer's defeat at the Battle of the Little Bighorn had significant implications for U.S.-Native American relations. It initially instilled hope and a sense of empowerment among Native tribes, showcasing their ability to unite and successfully challenge U.S. military forces. However, this victory was short-lived as it prompted a more aggressive military response from the U.S., leading to increased violence and further loss of land for Native Americans. Thus, while it represented a momentary triumph for Indigenous peoples, it ultimately accelerated their struggles against U.S. expansion.
• Evaluate how the outcomes of the Battle of the Little Bighorn influenced public perception and government policy toward Native Americans in subsequent years.
  • The outcomes of the Battle of the Little Bighorn significantly influenced public perception and government policy regarding Native Americans in subsequent years. Initially celebrated as a victory for Indigenous resistance, Custer's defeat fueled anti-Native sentiment among many Americans who viewed it as a call for retribution. This led to harsher policies and military actions aimed at subduing remaining tribes, resulting in increased reservations and loss of autonomy. The battle became emblematic in American culture, shaping narratives that justified further displacement and assimilation efforts against Native populations.

Related terms

Custer's Last Stand: A term used to describe Lieutenant Colonel George Custer's final military engagement at the Battle of the Little Bighorn, where his forces were overwhelmed and defeated.

Great Sioux War:

A series of conflicts between the United States and various Native American tribes in 1876-77 over land rights, culminating in the Battle of the Little Bighorn.

Lakota Sioux:

A Native American tribe that played a central role in the Battle of the Little Bighorn, known for their resistance against U.S. expansion and their rich cultural heritage.