Edward Lone Fight facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Edward Lone Fight
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| Chairman of the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation (Three Affiliated Tribes) | |
| In office 1986–1990 |
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| Tribal programs manager for the Three Affiliated Tribes | |
| In office 1994–1998 |
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| Superintendent of Mandaree School, Mandaree, North Dakota | |
| In office ? – Retired in 2000 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | May 29, 1939 Elbowoods, North Dakota, U.S. |
| Died | November 1, 2025 (aged 86) Stanley, North Dakota, U.S. |
| Relations | Parents, Mabel Good Bird and Theodore Lone Fight; descendant of Buffalo Bird Woman, Sheheke, and Chief Four Bears |
| Alma mater | Biology graduate, Dickinson State University; Master's degrees in Education and Public Administration |
| Fluent speaker | Hidatsa language |
Edward Lone Fight (May 28, 1939 – November 1, 2025) was an important leader for his Native American community. He served as the main leader, or Chairman, of the Three Affiliated Tribes. These tribes are the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation. He was Chairman from 1986 to 1990.
Edward Lone Fight was a strong voice for his people. He worked hard to protect their rights and culture. He was known for his dedication to education and preserving the Hidatsa language.
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Who Was Edward Lone Fight?
Edward Lone Fight was born on May 28, 1939, in Elbowoods, North Dakota. He grew up in a community rich with Native American traditions. He became a respected figure among the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara people.
Early Life and Education
Edward Lone Fight was a very dedicated student. He went to Dickinson State University. There, he earned a degree in biology. This was a big achievement for a Native American at that time. He also earned two master's degrees. One was in education and the other in public administration. This showed his commitment to learning and helping others.
He was also a fluent speaker of the Hidatsa language. He deeply respected the traditional ways and customs of his ancestors.
A Leader for His People
From 1986 to 1990, Edward Lone Fight served as the Chairman of the Three Affiliated Tribes. This role meant he was the main leader for the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation. He worked to improve life for everyone in his community.
Working with the President
A very important event happened in 1988. Edward Lone Fight met with President Ronald Reagan. This meeting was a big step for his tribes. It helped start a special law called the Just Compensation Bill.
This bill was created to help the tribes. Their land had been flooded many years earlier. This happened because of the Garrison Dam. The dam was built under a plan called the Pick-Sloan Legislation. The bill helped the tribes get some money for the land they lost. It was a way to make things a little more fair.
Later Career and Legacy
After his time as Chairman, Edward Lone Fight continued to serve his community. From 1994 to 1998, he managed tribal programs. These programs helped the Three Affiliated Tribes in many ways.
He also worked in education. He was the Superintendent of Mandaree School in Mandaree, North Dakota. He retired from this important role in 2000. Edward Lone Fight passed away on November 1, 2025, at the age of 86. His work left a lasting impact on his people.
Family and Heritage
Edward Lone Fight came from a family with a long history. His parents were Mabel Good Bird and Theodore Lone Fight. He was also a direct descendant of famous historical figures. These included Waheenie Wea (also known as Buffalo Bird Woman), Sheheke, and Chief Four Bears.
The name "Lone Fight" is special to his community. It is a family name found only among the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation. They live on the Fort Berthold Reservation in North Dakota.
