Did Women Participate in the Battle of Little Bighorn?

Manuel Butler

–

Quck answer

Yes, women did participate in the Battle of Little Bighorn. While their exact numbers are uncertain, historical accounts and Native American oral traditions confirm that women from the Lakota, Cheyenne, and other tribes fought alongside the men. These women played crucial roles in providing support, such as loading guns, tending to the wounded, and helping to organize defenses. Some women even picked up weapons and directly engaged in combat. Their presence and contributions highlight the significant role that women played in Native American warfare and challenge traditional narratives that focus solely on male warriors.

Today, we are going to explore a significant battle in American history. We are not referring to the Battle of Gettysburg or the Invasion of Normandy. Instead, we will be focusing on the Battle of Little Bighorn.

What exactly is the Battle of Little Bighorn? This battle involved American soldiers and warriors from three American Indian nations. Under the leadership of George Armstrong Custer, the U.S. soldiers aimed to remove American Indians from the Great Plains. This effort began after the discovery of gold in the Black Hills.

However, the Lakota Sioux, Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes had no intention of leaving their homes, and neither did the other nations of the Great Plains. That is why, on June 25, 1876, Custer and his troops attacked. They targeted a camp of American Indian people near the Little Bighorn River in Montana.

Lakota Sioux, Cheyenne, and Arapaho warriors joined forces to protect their families and homes. They set out to confront Custer and his 209 soldiers. Among these warriors, there was at least one Cheyenne woman named Buffalo Calf Road Woman, also known as Brave Woman.

Buffalo Calf Road Woman had already demonstrated her bravery in battle the previous week. During that battle, Cheyenne and Lakota Sioux warriors fought against another group of U.S. troops led by General George Crook. At one point, Buffalo Calf Road Woman’s brother, Comes In Sight, found himself surrounded by soldiers.

Suddenly, Buffalo Calf Road Woman charged into the fight on her horse, scattering the soldiers and rescuing her brother by pulling him onto her horse. Her courageous act led the Cheyenne people to refer to this event as “The Battle Where the Girl Saved Her Brother.”

In the Battle of Little Bighorn, Buffalo Calf Road Woman fought just as valiantly. In fact, she used a club to knock Custer off his horse. On that day, Custer and all 209 of his soldiers were killed, marking a significant victory for the Great Plains tribes.

Many years passed before most people learned about Buffalo Calf Road Woman’s bravery in battle. To avoid punishment from the U.S. government, the Cheyenne kept this truth a secret. Buffalo Calf Road Woman’s story was eventually revealed in the 1967 book “Custer on the Little Bighorn.” It was later confirmed by a Cheyenne elder in 2005.

In 1877, Buffalo Calf Road Woman was captured. U.S. soldiers forced her, along with her husband Black Coyote and several family members, to march from their home in Montana to Indian Territory, which is present-day Oklahoma. The following year, she joined a group that escaped the territory and returned home.

Throughout the 1,500-mile journey, they battled U.S. soldiers. Eventually, the group was recaptured and held at Fort Robinson, which is now located in Nebraska. It was there that Buffalo Calf Road Woman passed away from diptheria in May 1879.

What are your thoughts on the story of Buffalo Calf Road Woman? Does it remind you of any other courageous women in history? Take some time to learn more about women who have made a significant impact on the world today.

Try It Out

Are you ready to delve deeper into the American Indian nations of the Great Plains? Enlist the help of a friend or family member to assist you with the following activities.

The Rich Culture of American Indian Nations on the Great Plains

The Great Plains is home to American Indian nations with a cultural heritage that spans over 800 years. This article explores the fascinating aspects of their way of life. Take a moment to reflect on what you find interesting or challenging about their culture. Share your newfound knowledge with a friend or family member.

Buffalo Calf Road Woman’s Bravery

Today’s Wonder introduces us to Buffalo Calf Road Woman, a courageous figure even before the Battle of Little Bighorn. She displayed immense bravery by rescuing her wounded brother from the battlefield and bringing him to safety. Imagine how it would feel to perform such a heroic act. Would you experience fear or excitement? Would you be willing to overcome your fears to save someone you deeply care about? Write a couple of paragraphs about your thoughts and share them with a friend or family member. Engage in a meaningful discussion about Buffalo Calf Road Woman’s bravery in the face of danger.

The Significance of Objects and Clothing in American Indian Cultures

The diverse American Indian nations had unique cultures that produced meaningful objects and clothing. These artifacts played integral roles in their way of life. Enlist the help of a friend or family member to choose a project that allows you to explore and learn more about these fascinating cultures and their creations.

Wonder Sources

FAQ

1. Did women participate in the Battle of Little Bighorn?

Yes, there were women present at the Battle of Little Bighorn, although their roles were primarily supportive rather than as combatants. Many Native American women were part of the Sioux and Cheyenne tribes, which fought against the U.S. Army led by General George Custer. They provided crucial support by tending to the wounded, supplying ammunition, and helping with logistical tasks.

2. Were there any female warriors at Little Bighorn?

While it is difficult to ascertain specific individuals who engaged in combat, some Native American women did participate in the fighting at Little Bighorn. The Sioux and Cheyenne tribes had a tradition of strong female fighters known as “warrior women” or “brave women.” These women were skilled in handling weapons and were known to join battles alongside the men.

3. What was the role of women during the Battle of Little Bighorn?

Women played a significant role in supporting the Native American warriors during the Battle of Little Bighorn. They were responsible for taking care of the wounded, ensuring the supply of ammunition, and providing water and food to the fighters. Additionally, they acted as messengers, relaying important information and instructions between different groups.

4. Did any women fight alongside General Custer’s troops?

No historical records suggest that women fought alongside General Custer’s troops during the Battle of Little Bighorn. The U.S. Army at that time did not allow women to serve as combatants. However, there were women present as part of the civilian camp followers, who provided support services such as cooking, nursing, and laundry for the soldiers.

5. Were there any notable female figures during the battle?

While the Battle of Little Bighorn is primarily remembered for the male warriors involved, there were a few notable female figures present. One such individual was Buffalo Calf Road Woman, a Cheyenne woman who reportedly fought bravely during the battle. Her actions inspired and motivated the Native American warriors.

6. How were women recognized for their contributions at Little Bighorn?

Unfortunately, the contributions of women during the Battle of Little Bighorn were often overlooked or downplayed in historical accounts. However, recent efforts have been made to acknowledge their vital roles. Various Native American tribes and organizations have worked to highlight the stories of the women who supported the warriors and to honor their contributions to the battle.

Manuel Butler

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *