Legendary Oglala Lakota leader Crazy Horse represents Native American resistance to white settlement and U.S. imperialism. Crazy Horse, a Lakota warrior who was born around 1840 in what is now South Dakota, was instrumental in the defense of Lakota land and culture.

Crazy Horse was inspired to dedicate his life to the defense of his people and their sacred territory by his early experiences as a warrior and by the visions he had. During the Sioux Wars, he rose to prominence as a leader and is most known for his participation in the decisive victory over General George Custer’s army at the Battle of Little Bighorn.

A respected leader among his people and those of neighboring tribes, he was a formidable adversary to the U.S. Army. His terrible death under unclear circumstances followed his surrender to the United States government in 1877, which had been exerting growing pressure on him.

Understanding the complexities of Native American history and the effects of colonization on indigenous cultures is greatly enhanced by reading a book about Crazy Horse. A book has the potential to dig deeply into the spirituality and traditions of the Lakota people as well as the challenges endured by the Plains tribes at this time. Whether you’re interested in learning more about a spectacular leader or the larger history of Native American resistance and persistence, Crazy Horse’s legacy is a riveting subject that accomplishes both goals.