That winter, the Government declared an ultimatum: if the non-agency Indians didn't report to the nearest reservation by January 31, 1876, they would be declared as hostiles and attacked. Even if the Indians had wanted to comply, the blizzards and thick snows made it impossible for them to pack up their winter camps and travel overland. Regardless, the Army carried out its plan. The first attack, in March, was on a peaceful band of Sioux and Cheyenne at their hunting camp in Montana. Without any warning the soldiers opened fire at dawn, as the Indians slept. Then they burned down their tipis and took away their horses. The few who escaped made their way to the camp of Crazy Horse, a young warrior who was desperate to fight the white man.
Crazy Horse soon broke camp, leading his people to join Sitting Bull at his camp near the Tongue River, about 100 miles (160 km) east of the Little Bighorn. Meanwhile Sheridan, aware of the buildup of hostiles in that region, dispatched a three-pronged attack force of soldiers. From the east rode General Custer, commanding the Seventh Cavalry. Custer was famous for his daring and bravery in battle--his men would follow him anywhere. On the day they headed out, the band was playing his favorite tune, Garryowen The stage was set for the Battle of the Little Bighorn. If you want a to experience what it may have been like, you should read Abacus!
Crazy Horse soon broke camp, leading his people to join Sitting Bull at his camp near the Tongue River, about 100 miles (160 km) east of the Little Bighorn. Meanwhile Sheridan, aware of the buildup of hostiles in that region, dispatched a three-pronged attack force of soldiers. From the east rode General Custer, commanding the Seventh Cavalry. Custer was famous for his daring and bravery in battle--his men would follow him anywhere. On the day they headed out, the band was playing his favorite tune, Garryowen The stage was set for the Battle of the Little Bighorn. If you want a to experience what it may have been like, you should read Abacus!
Custer's West (continued)
