A Lakota and Cheyenne force led by Crazy Horse halted General Crook's advance, delaying a major U.S. Army offensive during the Great Sioux War of 1876.
Key Facts
- Date
- June 17, 1876
- Location
- Rosebud Creek, Montana Territory
- Conflict
- Great Sioux War of 1876
- U.S. Commander
- General George Crook
- Native American Leader
- Crazy Horse (Lakota Sioux)
- Cheyenne name
- Battle Where the Girl Saved Her Brother
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
During the Great Sioux War of 1876, the U.S. Army launched a three-pronged campaign to force Lakota Sioux and Northern Cheyenne bands onto reservations. General George Crook led one column northward into Montana Territory, encountering a large Native American force along Rosebud Creek.
On June 17, 1876, Crook's forces and their Crow and Shoshoni allies clashed with a primarily Lakota Sioux and Northern Cheyenne force led by Crazy Horse along Rosebud Creek in Montana Territory. The battle became notable for the actions of Buffalo Calf Road Woman, a Cheyenne woman who rescued her brother during the fighting.
Crook's offensive was effectively halted; he withdrew and awaited reinforcements before resuming the campaign in August. The delay contributed to the broader strategic situation that culminated in the U.S. defeat at the Battle of the Little Bighorn just eight days later, on June 25, 1876.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
2 belligerents
General George Crook.
Side B
2 belligerents
Crazy Horse.