Little Crow – Leader in the Dakota War of 1862
The tumultuous era of westward expansion in the United States witnessed countless clashes between settlers and the indigenous populations who called the land home. Among the many Native American leaders who rose to prominence during this period, Little Crow stands as a figure of both respect and controversy, forever linked to the tragic events of the Dakota War of 1862. This conflict, a bloody chapter in Minnesota’s history, was fueled by broken treaties, starvation, and the relentless pressure of white settlement. Understanding the life and motivations of Little Crow is crucial to grasping the complexities of this war and its lasting impact.
This article delves into the life of this complex figure, exploring his rise to leadership, his role in the Dakota War, and the circumstances surrounding his death. Drawing upon historical accounts, including those of Charles A. Eastman (Ohiyesa), a Dakota physician and author, we aim to provide a comprehensive portrait of a man caught between two worlds, a leader who ultimately chose to fight for the survival of his people.
Origins and Early Life
Little Crow, known in his native Dakota language as Taoyateduta, meaning "His Red People," was born into the Kaposia band of the Dakota, a subgroup of the larger Sioux Nation. His lineage was steeped in leadership; he was the eldest son of Cetanwakuwa, or Charging Hawk. The name "Crow," a mistranslation of his father’s name, became the moniker by which the white settlers knew him.
The Kaposia band had a long history in the region, originally inhabiting the Mille Lacs area before migrating to St. Croix Falls and eventually settling near present-day St. Paul, Minnesota. By 1840, Cetanwakuwa was living in West St. Paul, but his life was cut short by an accidental gunshot wound.
The death of his father thrust the Kaposia band into a period of instability. Cetanwakuwa had three wives, each from different Dakota bands, and the sons of the second and third wives saw an opportunity to seize leadership. They plotted to assassinate Little Crow, aiming to keep the chieftainship within their branch of the family. Their plan involved a feast fueled by whiskey, with the intention of instigating a quarrel and murdering Little Crow in the ensuing confusion.
However, their plot was foiled by a young brave who, at the last moment, deflected the shot with his hatchet, saving Little Crow‘s life but suffering a broken arm in the process. The failed assassination attempt led to the condemnation and execution of the two conspiring brothers, solidifying Little Crow‘s position as the undisputed leader of the Kaposia band.
A Leader Forged in Adversity
The early attempt on his life foreshadowed the challenges Little Crow would face throughout his leadership. His mother, a chief’s daughter renowned for her beauty and strong spirit, played a significant role in shaping his character. She instilled in him a deep connection to nature and a sense of responsibility to his people. According to Eastman, she would immerse him in icy lakes, rubbing him with snow to strengthen his resolve, and leave him alone in the wilderness to cultivate self-reliance and a connection to the spiritual world.
She taught him the importance of listening to the "mystery, the spirit," emphasizing that true leadership required an understanding of the unseen forces that guided their world. She arranged for him to undergo a formal fasting ritual at a young age, a spiritual presentation to the Great Spirit, underscoring her desire for him to become a worthy leader.
Little Crow possessed a natural ambition and a fearless disposition. He honed his skills in warfare from a young age, demonstrating his courage and resourcefulness. One story recounts how, as a boy of ten, he participated in a mock battle, using his dog as a scout to infiltrate the enemy camp undetected. At twelve, he saved a companion who had fallen through the ice, showcasing his quick thinking and bravery.
As a young man, he served his people as a messenger to other tribes, a dangerous and demanding role. He was also known as a skilled hunter, providing for his community. By the time he became chief of the Kaposia, Little Crow had already established a reputation for courage, competence, and dedication to his people, qualities that would be tested in the years to come.
Navigating a Changing World
The mid-19th century brought profound changes to the lives of the Dakota people. The fur trade, initially a source of economic exchange, gradually eroded their traditional way of life, making them increasingly dependent on traders. As the United States government expanded its influence, it sought to acquire Dakota lands through treaties, promising food, clothing, housing, agricultural training, and education in return. A trust fund was also established, with annual interest payments intended to benefit the Dakota people.
Little Crow, recognizing the changing landscape, attempted to navigate the complex world of treaties and negotiations. He became known for his oratory skills and diplomatic abilities, engaging in politics and promoting various schemes that, in retrospect, proved detrimental to his people. He gained popularity among post traders and factors, who recognized his influence and sought to leverage it for their own gain.
In the late 1850s, Little Crow and other Dakota chiefs were invited to Washington D.C. During a formal dinner hosted by a major army general, Little Crow served as toastmaster, addressing senators, congressmen, Supreme Court justices, and cabinet officers. He invoked Dakota customs, calling upon an Ojibway chief to perform a wolf howl, followed by a burst of war whoops that startled and electrified the assembled dignitaries.
However, the promises made by the government and the traders often went unfulfilled. The Dakota found themselves confined to a small reservation, cut off from their traditional hunting grounds and natural resources. They faced starvation each winter, relying on credit from traders who exploited their vulnerability. The annual annuity payments were often delayed or diverted, leaving the Dakota increasingly impoverished and resentful.
Little Crow himself became entangled in these corrupt dealings. He signed an agreement to sell the northern half of their reservation for $98,000, unaware that the traders were to receive all the proceeds. This decision, made in a climate of pressure and misinformation, proved to be a significant mistake, further eroding his credibility among his people.
The Dakota War of 1862
The simmering discontent among the Dakota reached a boiling point in the summer of 1862. The Civil War had diverted the government’s attention and resources, leading to further delays in annuity payments. When it became clear that the traders had seized all the money "on account," anger and desperation surged through the Dakota communities.
The murder of a white family near Acton, Minnesota, by a group of Dakota duck hunters ignited the spark that would set off the Dakota War. Messengers spread the news throughout the Dakota villages, and war councils were convened. Some argued against violence, but the prevailing sentiment was that the time had come to reclaim their freedom and drive out the white settlers.
Little Crow, facing accusations of complicity in the injustices suffered by his people, saw an opportunity to regain his standing by leading them in war. Despite his earlier efforts to negotiate and adapt to the changing world, he ultimately chose to side with those who advocated for armed resistance.
Eastman’s father, Many Lightnings, a respected leader of the Mankato band, argued against violence against civilians, advocating instead for fighting only the soldiers. He and others warned Little Crow that if he wanted war, he must personally lead his men and refrain from harming women and children.
Little Crow declared his intention to be at the forefront of every battle, and he kept his word, urging his warriors to spare no one. He ordered his war leader, Many Hail, to fire the first shot, killing the trader James Lynd.
Defeat and Death
The Dakota War raged for several months, marked by fierce battles and widespread violence. However, the Dakota were ultimately outmatched by the superior resources and organization of the U.S. military. After a year of fighting, Little Crow, his reputation tarnished by defeat, retreated to Fort Garry (now Winnipeg, Manitoba), seeking refuge among his old trading contacts.
With a price on his head, Little Crow hatched a plan to return to St. Paul, hoping to surrender to his former allies in exchange for protection. He left Canada with a small group of trusted companions, including his youngest son, Wowinape, who was only fifteen years old.
As they neared St. Paul, Little Crow sent the others back, continuing the journey with only his son. Hungry and forced to remain hidden in the woods, Little Crow was picking raspberries when he was spotted by a wood-chopper named Nathan Lamson. Mistaking him for an ordinary Indian, Lamson shot Little Crow, who died instantly.
Lamson returned home and reported the incident. The body of Little Crow was later identified, in part by his twice-broken arm. The death of Little Crow marked the end of an era, symbolizing the tragic consequences of broken promises, cultural clashes, and the relentless march of westward expansion. His legacy remains complex and contested, a reminder of the human cost of conflict and the enduring struggle for justice and self-determination.