Podcast Episode Details

Most likely, Crazy Horse was born in the spring of 1840, in the Black Hills of western South Dakota, near Rapid City.  His father was a member of the Oglala clan, also named Crazy Horse, and his mother, Rattle Blanket Woman was a Minniconju.

The Lakotas and Cheyenne were generally aware of the federal presence but believed that only a fool would attempt to attack such a large and powerful position.  But, at 3 PM, attack Custer did, ordering 140 cavalry on horseback under the command of Major Marcus Reno to engage the south side of the giant native village on the western shoreline of the Little Bighorn River.  Custer planned to take his command of 200 men and proceed along the river, ultimately leading an attack upon the northern side of the village. 

Custer’s strategy, relying on his own success at the Washita and other battlefield experience, was simple.  He divided his 12 companies into three units.  Three companies commanded by Major Marcus Reno would attack the encampment from the South, Three would be commanded by Captain Frederick Benteen, held in reserve to pursue any subsequent advantage and five units would be lead by Custer himself, attacking the village from the North.  One unit would be held behind to customarily protect the regiment wagon train of material and ammunition.

Although weakened and disorganized, Crazy Horse and other non-treaty natives were adamant that they would not move on to

Published on 6 years, 1 month ago