Crow Foot facts for kids
Crow Foot (born around 1876 – died December 15, 1890) was a young member of the Lakota people. He was the son of the famous Lakota leader, Sitting Bull.
Crow Foot's mother was either named Seen by Her Nation or Four Robes. He had several brothers and sisters, including Standing Holy, Lodge, Henry, Little Soldier, Red Scout, and Theodore. He was a twin, born just before the important Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876. He was given his name to honor another chief, Crow Foot, who was a Blackfeet leader in Canada.
Crow Foot: Son of Sitting Bull
Crow Foot was known for being a very bright and intelligent boy. People who knew him said he had eyes that "fairly snap like whips," meaning he was very alert and quick-witted. His father, Sitting Bull, believed it was important for Native American children to learn to read and write. Because of this, Crow Foot and his siblings went to a school run by a Congregational church. Many believed Crow Foot was Sitting Bull's favorite son.
A Bright Young Man
Even at a young age, Crow Foot was described as serious and wise beyond his years. One person said he "displayed a wisdom remarkable for one so young." Another, Robert Higheagle, noted that Crow Foot was different from other boys his age. He didn't spend much time playing games with them. Instead, he seemed to "grow old too early," suggesting he was very mature for his age.
A Difficult Time
In 1881, Crow Foot was with his father when Sitting Bull surrendered at Fort Buford. This was a very significant moment. Crow Foot himself took his father's Winchester rifle and handed it over to Major Brotherton, showing his involvement in this historic event.
The End of His Life
Sadly, Crow Foot was killed on December 15, 1890, the same day as his father. They were killed by a group of Indian agents and police officers. One police officer later reported that Crow Foot spoke to his father during the arrest. He supposedly said, "You always called yourself a brave chief. Now you are allowing yourself to be taken by the Ceska maza" (which means police). However, early reports of the arrest do not mention Crow Foot saying this.
Crow Foot was found hiding in a pile of blankets. He pleaded, "My uncles, do not kill me. I do not wish to die." Some accounts say that the police killed him because a dying officer named Bull Head told them to. Other stories suggest that Bull Head simply said he didn't care what they did. Crow Foot was hit with a rifle and then killed by bullets.
