Little Big Man facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Little Big Man
|
|
|---|---|
| Charging Bear | |
Little Big Man
|
|
| Oglala Lakota leader | |
| Personal details | |
| Relations | Sister (Twin), Hannah Mule Tocha Cesli, b. 1841 |
| Parents | Yellow Thunder, Her Holy Breath |
| Known for | Battle of Little Bighorn, cousin and Ally of Crazy Horse |
Little Big Man (whose name in Lakota was Wičháša Tȟáŋkala), also known as Charging Bear, was a brave and respected Oglala Lakota warrior. He was a distant cousin and close ally of the famous leader Crazy Horse. Little Big Man strongly disagreed with the 1868 Treaty of Fort Laramie. This treaty tried to take control of the traditional lands of the Sioux people in the Black Hills area of the Dakota Territory.
He also fought in the important Battle of Little Bighorn in the Montana Territory in 1876. Later in his life, Little Big Man decided to work with the United States government. He was present during the events that led to the death of his old friend and fellow warrior, Crazy Horse, at Fort Robinson in Nebraska in 1877.
A Strong Warrior and Leader
Little Big Man was known for being a fearless warrior. He was a trusted lieutenant, or assistant, to Crazy Horse. People described him as clever and having a strong presence. He was also known for being a bit of a challenging person, always standing up for what he believed in.
In 1875, Little Big Man even threatened to harm the U.S. government officials who were trying to negotiate with the Sioux. These talks were about gaining control of the Black Hills.
Fighting for His People's Land
Little Big Man was a key figure in the resistance against the U.S. government's efforts to take over Native American lands. He believed strongly that the Black Hills belonged to his people. His involvement in the Battle of Little Bighorn showed his dedication to protecting his tribe's way of life. This battle was a major conflict where Native American forces defeated U.S. Army troops.
A Difficult Moment
In the late 1870s, Little Big Man surrendered along with Crazy Horse. This was a tough time for the Lakota people. Little Big Man was present when Crazy Horse was injured by a soldier. Just before Crazy Horse was hurt, Little Big Man grabbed his arm. Crazy Horse's last words, spoken to Little Big Man and others, were, "Let me go my friends. You have got me hurt enough."
See also
- Little Big Man (film)
