GREASY GRASS CREEK

One hundred thirty-three years ago today, a combined force of Lakota and Northern Cheyenne American Indians defeated the 7th Cavalry Regiment of the United States Army in the Battle of Greasy Grass Creek. That name for the battle is the one the Native Americans gave it . . . everyone else knows it as the Battle of Little Big Horn. The battle took place in eastern Montana Territory. It is the most famous battle of the Great Sioux War (1876-1877). The Lakota people are a part of the Sioux Nation.

General George Armstrong Custer led the U.S. Army forces and Chief Sitting Bull the Indian forces. Custer gave his life this date in that battle as did two of his brothers, his brother-in-law and a nephew.

The war began when Indians, who had been forced to live on reservations, revolted against this demand and started leaving to live on their own. It was the Army's intent to 'round up' the Indians and herd them back onto the reservations. As with most losers in upsets, the Army underestimated their opponent . . . underestimated the size of the force and their determination.
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