Indian cavalry facts for kids
During the American Civil War (1861-1865), many Native American people from the Midwest and Eastern parts of the United States joined the fighting. These groups are sometimes called "Indian cavalry" because many of them fought on horseback. Most of these Native American soldiers fought for the Confederate States of America, but some also joined the Union forces.
Native American nations often had their own reasons for joining the war. Some had treaties with the Confederate states, while others hoped to protect their lands and way of life. The war was a very difficult time for these communities, as it often divided families and tribes.
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Native American Soldiers in the Confederate Army
Many Native American nations, especially those in what was then called Indian Territory (now Oklahoma), sided with the Confederacy. They often formed their own regiments and battalions, led by their own chiefs and officers.
Cherokee Nation
The Cherokee Nation was one of the largest groups to join the Confederate side. They formed several units, including mounted riflemen and artillery.
- 1st Cherokee Mounted Rifles: This famous unit was led by Colonel (later Brigadier General) Stand Watie. He was the only Native American general in the Confederate army.
- Thomas' Legion / 69th North Carolina Infantry: This group included Cherokee soldiers and was led by Colonel William Holland Thomas.
Chickasaw Nation
The Chickasaw Nation also raised troops to fight for the Confederacy.
- 1st Regiment of Chickasaw Cavalry: A key cavalry unit for the Chickasaw people.
Choctaw Nation
The Choctaw Nation contributed several regiments to the Confederate forces.
- 1st Regiment Choctaw & Chickasaw Mounted Rifles: This unit combined soldiers from both the Choctaw and Chickasaw Nations. It was led by Colonel Douglas H. Cooper.
Creek Nation
The Creek Nation also had units fighting for the Confederacy.
- 1st Creek Mounted Rifles: Led by Colonel Daniel N. McIntosh.
- 2nd Creek Mounted Rifles: Led by Lieutenant Colonel Chilly McIntosh.
Seminole Nation
The Seminole Nation also had soldiers fighting in the war.
- 1st Battalion Seminole Mounted Volunteers: A group of Seminole soldiers who volunteered for service.
Other Nations
Other Native American groups also participated, such as the Osage.
- Osage Cavalry Battalion: This unit was led by Major Broken Arm.
Native American Soldiers in the Union Army
While many Native Americans fought for the Confederacy, some also joined the Union army. They often did so for their own reasons, sometimes hoping to protect their lands from Confederate influence or to support the Union's cause against slavery.
Indian Home Guard
The Union army formed units known as the Indian Home Guard. These regiments were made up of Native American soldiers who fought for the Union.
- 1st Regiment, Indian Home Guard
- 2nd Regiment, Indian Home Guard: This unit was led by Colonel John Ritchie.
- 3rd Regiment, Indian Home Guard: Led by Colonel William A. Phillips.
- 4th Regiment, Indian Home Guard
