Battle of Union Gap facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Union Gap
Part of the Yakima War, American Indian Wars
A drawing of Chief Kamiakin by Gustav Sohon in 1855. Credit: Washington State Historical Society
Date November 9–10, 1855 Location Union Gap, Yakima River, Washington Result United States victory
Belligerents
United States	Yakama
Commanders and leaders
Gabriel J. Rains	Kamiakin
Strength
~700 infantry	~300 warriors

The Battle of Union Gap was an important fight during the Yakima War. This battle happened on November 9 and 10, 1855. It was the second major clash in the conflict between the United States Army and the Yakama people.

What Was the Battle of Union Gap?

The Battle of Union Gap took place near the Yakima River in what is now Washington. About 700 American soldiers, led by Major Gabriel J. Rains, found a village belonging to Chief Kamiakin. This village had around 300 Yakama warriors, plus women and children. The battle lasted for two days. In the end, the Yakama people had to leave their village. Only one person, who was not a fighter, was accidentally killed during the battle.

The Yakima War: Why It Happened

The Yakima War was part of the larger American Indian Wars. These wars happened as American settlers moved west. The main reason for the Yakima War was land. The United States government wanted to make treaties to get land from Native American tribes. Many tribes, including the Yakama, did not agree with these treaties. They felt their lands were being taken unfairly. The discovery of gold in the region also brought more settlers, which made tensions worse.

Who Was Involved?

Two main groups fought in the Battle of Union Gap. On one side was the United States Army. On the other side were the Yakama people, led by their respected chief.

Major Rains and the US Army

Gabriel J. Rains was a Major in the United States Army. He led a large group of about 700 soldiers. These soldiers were trained infantry, meaning they fought on foot. Their goal was to control the region and enforce the land treaties.

Chief Kamiakin and the Yakama People

Chief Kamiakin was a powerful and respected leader of the Yakama people. He led about 300 warriors in this battle. The Yakama people were fighting to protect their homes and their way of life. They wanted to keep their traditional lands.

The Battle Begins

On November 9, 1855, Major Rains's soldiers found Chief Kamiakin's village. The village was located along the Yakima River. The American forces were much larger than the Yakama warriors.

Two Days of Fighting

The battle lasted for two days. The American soldiers tried to force the Yakama people to leave. The Yakama warriors fought bravely to defend their families and their village. Despite their efforts, the American Army's larger numbers and weapons were a challenge.

What Happened Next?

After two days of fighting, the Yakama warriors decided to retreat. They moved their women and children to safety. The United States Army claimed victory in this battle. However, the Yakima War continued for some time after this engagement. The conflict showed the struggles Native American tribes faced as settlers moved into their territories.