Battle of Wolf Mountains
The Battle of Wolf Mountains, fought in November 1876 and January 1877, was a significant conflict during the Indian Wars, highlighting the intense military campaigns against Native American tribes by the U.S. Army. Following the U.S. defeat at the Battle of the Little Bighorn, the Army, led by General George Crook and Colonel Nelson A. Miles, sought to subdue the Cheyenne and Sioux tribes in this region of Montana. The initial engagement occurred on November 6, 1876, resulting in a decisive victory for the U.S. forces, which prompted some Cheyenne to seek refuge with the Oglala Sioux, led by the renowned leader Crazy Horse.
Continued skirmishes in early January 1877 culminated in a prolonged battle on January 8, where Miles's troops further pressured the Native American forces. Although the conflict caused significant hardship for the Indigenous groups, including food shortages, the U.S. Army's advance was ultimately hindered by their own logistical challenges. The culmination of these battles contributed to a shift in the dynamics of the conflict, leading to negotiations for peace. On May 6, 1877, Crazy Horse and his followers surrendered, effectively marking the conclusion of the Plains Indian Wars. This battle underscores the broader narrative of resistance and the complex interactions between Native Americans and U.S. military forces during this tumultuous period in American history.
Battle of Wolf Mountains
Date: January 1-8, 1877
Place: Wolf Mountains, Montana
Tribes affected: Cheyenne, Oglala Sioux
Significance: This battle, the last fight between the U.S. Army and the Cheyenne and Sioux, ended in stalemate but sufficiently weakened the Indians that they sought peace shortly thereafter
After the U.S. Army’s resounding defeat at the Battle of the Little Bighorn in June, 1876, the United States redoubled its resolve to defeat the Indians. The Powder River expedition, under the command of General George Crook and Colonel Nelson A. Miles, soundly defeated the Cheyenne in the Wolf Mountains on November 6, 1876. The survivors joined the Oglala Sioux camp under Crazy Horse.
In a series of skirmishes and running battles on January 1, 3, and 7, and a five-hour battle on January 8, 1877, in the Wolf Mountains, Miles was able to drive the Indians out. He was then stopped by fatigue and a shortage of supplies, but the damage to the Indians was already done. Their weakened condition, lack of food, and increasing desire for peace led to negotiations. On May 6, 1877, Crazy Horse and his followers surrendered at the Red Cloud Agency, essentially marking the end of the Plains Indians wars.