Curley Headed Doctor facts for kids

Curley Headed Doctor, a Modoc spiritual leader.

Curley Headed Doctor (Modoc language: Cho-ocks, born 1828 – died 1890) was an important spiritual leader for the Modoc tribe. He played a key role during the Modoc War. He was also known as Curly-Headed Doctor.

Who Was Curley Headed Doctor?

Curley Headed Doctor was a Modoc man from California. At first, he believed that the Modoc people could live peacefully with the white settlers. However, he later changed his mind. He became a strong supporter of Modoc independence. He wanted to protect their religious beliefs and traditions. He learned about the Ghost Dance from a Paiute Indian. This was a special dance meant to bring back the old ways.

Why Did the Modoc People Move?

American gold miners and ranchers started moving onto Modoc lands. Because of this, the Modoc leaders agreed to move. They gave up their traditional homes in California. They moved to a reservation in Oregon in 1864. This reservation was also home to the Klamath and Yahooskin tribes.

Life on the reservation was very hard for the Modoc. The person in charge of the reservation did not help them. The Klamath tribe also often bothered the Modoc. The leader of Curley Headed Doctor's group was Captain Jack. His group was called the Hot Creeks. Captain Jack decided to lead his people back to their old homes in California. The US Army reacted with force.

The Modoc War and Its Impact

The Modoc War began when the US Army tried to force the Modoc back to the reservation.

Curley Headed Doctor's Role in the War

During the Battle of Lost River on November 29, 1872, Curley Headed Doctor helped the Modoc warriors. He led special dances to support them. Some people said he used his spiritual power to help Captain Jack's followers. He was accused of wrongdoing by a court in Oregon, but he was not put on trial.

He is remembered for helping his tribe during the First Battle of the Stronghold in January 1873. People say he caused a thick fog to appear. This fog helped protect the Modoc tribe during the battle. He also led them in the Ghost Dance. This dance was meant to protect them and keep them from disappearing.

After the War

After the Modoc people surrendered, the US Government decided to spare Curley Headed Doctor. He was sent away to Indian Territory. This is now Oklahoma. He went with the other Modoc survivors from Captain Jack's group. They later became known as the Modoc Tribe of Oklahoma. Curley Headed Doctor lived the rest of his life there. He died in Oklahoma in 1890.

Family Connections

Curley Headed Doctor's son-in-law was Hooker Jim. Hooker Jim was a Modoc warrior. He played an important part in the Modoc War.