key term - General Alfred Terry

Definition

General Alfred Terry was a prominent United States Army officer known for his role in the Indian Wars, particularly during the 1870s. He is best recognized for leading the expedition that ultimately led to the Battle of Little Bighorn, where he played a key part in the military strategies that were employed against Native American tribes during a time of significant conflict between settlers and Indigenous peoples.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Alfred Terry was appointed to command the military campaign against the Sioux after the defeat of Custer at Little Bighorn.
2. He played a strategic role in coordinating military efforts and reinforcements to pursue Native American leaders following their victory at Little Bighorn.
3. Terry's troops eventually succeeded in surrounding and forcing the surrender of Sitting Bull's band in 1881.
4. He was known for his methodical approach to warfare and often emphasized the importance of intelligence gathering before engaging in battle.
5. General Terry's leadership style influenced later military strategies employed by the U.S. Army during subsequent conflicts with Native American tribes.

Review Questions

• How did General Alfred Terry's leadership impact the outcome of the military campaign against Native Americans following the Battle of Little Bighorn?
  • General Alfred Terry's leadership had a significant impact on the U.S. military campaign following the Battle of Little Bighorn. After Custer's defeat, Terry took command and focused on regrouping his forces and implementing a strategic pursuit of Native American leaders like Sitting Bull. His ability to organize reinforcements and use intelligence effectively contributed to later successes in forcing Native Americans to surrender, thereby shaping the course of the Indian Wars.
• Analyze how General Alfred Terry's tactics during the Indian Wars reflected broader U.S. military strategies at that time.
  • General Alfred Terry's tactics during the Indian Wars showcased a shift towards more organized and strategic military operations. His emphasis on intelligence gathering and coordinated movements highlighted a growing understanding of battlefield dynamics that extended beyond brute force. These tactics reflected broader U.S. military strategies that aimed to adapt to Native American guerrilla warfare techniques, ultimately aiming for decisive victories while minimizing casualties.
• Evaluate General Alfred Terry’s role within the context of U.S.-Native American relations during the late 19th century and how this influenced historical narratives.
  • General Alfred Terry’s role during this period illustrates the complexities of U.S.-Native American relations in the late 19th century. His actions contributed to significant military victories for the U.S. Army but also played a part in reinforcing narratives that justified westward expansion at the expense of Indigenous peoples. By evaluating his military strategies and outcomes, one can understand how historical narratives often framed Native Americans as obstacles to progress, overshadowing their rights and perspectives amid increasing settler encroachment.

Related terms

Battle of Little Bighorn:

A significant battle fought on June 25-26, 1876, between the U.S. Army and Native American tribes led by Lakota Chief Sitting Bull and others, resulting in a major defeat for U.S. forces.

Custer's Last Stand: The final stand of Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer and his men during the Battle of Little Bighorn, where they were overwhelmingly defeated by combined Native American forces.

Indian Wars:

A series of conflicts between the United States government and various Native American tribes from the late 19th century through the early 20th century, largely over land and resources.