8 January 1877

Crazy Horse and his warriors fight their last battle against the United States Cavalry at Wolf Mountain, Montana Territory.

Crazy Horse (c. 1840–1877) was a renowned Oglala Lakota leader and warrior celebrated for his courage, tactical brilliance, and steadfast dedication to preserving his people’s way of life in the face of U.S. expansion. Born into a world of profound cultural change, he emerged as a fierce protector of his tribe’s sovereignty and traditions. Crazy Horse played a pivotal role in resisting U.S. military incursions, most notably in the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876, where his leadership contributed to the defeat of General Custer’s forces. Revered for his humility, he eschewed material wealth and traditional tribal politics, focusing solely on defending the land and rights of his people. Despite his heroism, he faced betrayal and was fatally wounded while under arrest in 1877, cementing his legacy as a martyr for Native American resistance. His enduring image symbolizes the resilience and sacrifice of indigenous peoples.