Lame Deer facts for kids

Lame Deer (born 1821, died 1877) was an important leader of the Miniconjou Lakota people. The Miniconjou were a group of the larger Lakota nation. He served as a vice chief for his band, called Wakpokinyan, which means "to Fly along the river."

Early Life and Treaties

Lame Deer was born in 1821. He became known for his leadership and his role in important agreements.

The 1865 Treaty

In 1865, Lame Deer was one of the main leaders to sign a peace agreement. This was called the Treaty with the Minneconjon Indians. It was signed at Fort Sully in what is now South Dakota. His name on the treaty was "Tah-ke-chah-hoosh-tay, The Lame Deer." He was listed as the first chief of his Miniconjou band.

Opposing the 1868 Treaty

Later, in 1868, another treaty was made. This was the Treaty of Fort Laramie. This treaty asked the Lakota to give up a lot of their land to the United States. Lame Deer and his group did not agree with this treaty. They wanted to keep their traditional lands.

Key Battles and Legacy

Lame Deer played a part in major conflicts during his time.

The Battle of Little Bighorn

In 1876, Lame Deer was present at a famous battle. It is known as the Battle of the Little Bighorn. The Lakota and their allies fought against United States soldiers. The Native American forces won a big victory in this battle. It is also sometimes called the Battle of the Greasy Grass.

His Final Days

On May 7, 1877, Lame Deer's village was attacked. Soldiers led by Colonel Nelson A. Miles carried out the attack. The village was located near where the town of Lame Deer, Montana is today. Lame Deer was shot during this attack. He passed away three days later, on May 10, 1877. The town of Lame Deer, Montana, was named in his honor.