Battle of Talladega facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Talladega
Part of the Creek War
A historic marker in Talladega, Alabama commemorating General Andrew Jackson's victory over the Red Sticks at the Battle of Talladega
Date November 9, 1813 Location Mississippi Territory Result U.S. victory
Belligerents
Red Stick Creeks	United States
Commanders and leaders
William Weatherford	Andrew Jackson
Strength
~700 warriors	~1,200 infantry ~800 cavalry
Casualties and losses
~300 killed, ~110 wounded	15 killed ~85 wounded

Battle of Talladega

The Battle of Talladega was an important fight during the Creek War. It took place on November 9, 1813. This battle was fought near what is now Talladega, Alabama. It involved the Tennessee Militia and a group of Creek Indians known as the Red Sticks.

How the Battle Started

After a victory at the Battle of Tallushatchee, General Andrew Jackson and his soldiers were at Fort Strother. They received an urgent message from friendly Creek Indians. These friendly Creeks were trapped by the Red Sticks at a place called Talladega.

Jackson quickly decided to help. He gathered his force of about 2,000 men. This group included around 1,200 foot soldiers (infantry) and 800 horse soldiers (cavalry). They were camped by the Coosa River. The Red Sticks, led by William Weatherford, had about 700 warriors.

Inside a small fort called Fort Leslie, there were about 150 friendly Native Americans. They were known as White Sticks. There were also a few white settlers. Chief Chinnabee was one of the White Sticks inside the fort.

A brave story tells how Chief Chinnabee's son, Selocta, helped. He supposedly covered himself with a pigskin. He then grunted and moved like a pig through the Red Stick camp after dark. Once he was far enough away, he took off the skin. He then ran through the wilderness to reach General Jackson's camp. He delivered the message asking for help.

The Battle Unfolds

General Jackson's army arrived near the village on November 9, 1813. The Red Sticks fought bravely. They caused 17 injuries to Jackson's soldiers.

However, Jackson's forces were stronger. They defeated the Red Sticks. The Red Sticks suffered 299 casualties and were forced to leave the battlefield.

What Happened Next

The Red Sticks lost about 300 warriors who were killed. Around 110 more were wounded. General Jackson's army had 15 soldiers killed. About 85 of his men were wounded.

After this battle, there was a quiet period in the fighting. By December, Jackson's army had shrunk to only about 500 men. Many soldiers left because their time of service was over. Others simply deserted.

In January, Jackson moved his army to support the Georgia militia. This led to more battles, known as the Battles of Emuckfaw and Enotachopo Creek. After these fights, Jackson returned to Fort Strother.

Later, Jackson received more soldiers, including regular U.S. troops. He then went on the attack again. This led to the very important Battle of Horseshoe Bend.