Crazy Horse and the Black Hills

Study Notes

The Significance of the Black Hills

The Black Hills hold spiritual essence and are the center of the universe for the Lakota Nation
The Lakota word for the Black Hills is "Hey Sapa" or "Paha Sapa"
The Black Hills are a sacred place where Crazy Horse understood, respected, and died for

Crazy Horse's Life

Born around 1840 in the Black Hills
Lived to 1877
Known for his bravery in battles, including the Fort Fetterman fight and the Battle of the Little Bighorn
Had a mystical and humble nature, often seeking guidance from spirits and the land
Was given the name "Crazy Horse" due to his curly hair and light skin, which were unusual among his people

Vision Quest and War Medicine

Crazy Horse received a sacred vision at the age of 14, which gave him the power of war medicine
His war medicine was symbolized by lightning design marks on his arms and legs
The Thunder Being was his protector and guided his life

Humility and Leadership

Crazy Horse was a humble person, taught by his mentor and uncle, Hai Backbone
He rose to power as a warrior and leader due to his bravery and humility
He was appointed a Shirt Wearer, a status shirt made of leather and decorated with personal designs

Defense of the Black Hills

Crazy Horse spoke out against the selling of the Black Hills and the intrusion of settlers
He was part of the Grand Council at Bear Butte, where he reminded the people of the importance of their ways, traditions, culture, and language
He led the defense against the US, including the defeat of William J. Fetterman and the eventual closure of the forts

The Battle of the Little Bighorn

Crazy Horse acted as a decoy, leading the US soldiers into a trap, resulting in a great victory for the Lakota and Cheyenne
The battle was a turning point in the war, and the Lakota declared a victory over the US

Surrender and Death

Crazy Horse surrendered in late April 1877, along with other leaders, due to the dwindling of the buffalo herds and the desperation of the people
He was sent to Camp Robinson, where he was arrested and eventually killed in a scuffle with soldiers
His death was a result of his refusal to back down from the notion that he would protect his people's way of life

Description

Learn about the life and legacy of Crazy Horse, a Lakota war leader, and the significance of the Black Hills in Native American culture and history. Discover his early life, vision quest, and leadership, as well as his role in defending the Black Hills against US forces.