Opposing Forces: U.S. 7th Cavalry led by George Armstrong Custer vs. Northern Plains Indians led by Sitting Bull.
Outcome: Defeat of U.S. 7th Cavalry.
The Myth vs. Reality
Myth: Custer’s last stand was portrayed as a heroic last stand against overwhelming odds.
Reality: Modern archaeology and forensic evidence reveal a chaotic battle, not a gallant stand.
Archaeological and Forensic Discoveries
Archaeologists have used forensic skills similar to crime scene investigations to uncover the truth.
Evidence found includes bullets, cartridges, and personal items which paint a picture of chaos and panic among U.S. troops.
Testimonies from Lakota and Cheyenne oral traditions have been historically overshadowed by the myth.
Factors Leading to Defeat
Custer underestimated the number of Indian warriors (over 1,500) and their firepower.
U.S. troops were poorly trained, ill-prepared, and in poor physical condition.
Custer divided his forces, weakening his ability to respond effectively.
Indians were well-armed with numerous types of firearms, contrary to the myth that they only used bows and arrows.
Indian tactics took advantage of the terrain and were superior in close combat.
Key Events and Tactics
Initial Contact: Custer’s scouts spotted a large Indian encampment.
Division of Forces: Custer divided his troops into three separate battalions.
Battlefield Movements:
Cartridge case analysis showed the positions and movements of troops and Indian warriors.
Indian warriors used cover effectively and overwhelmed exposed troopers.
Custer’s forces were unable to maintain cohesion, leading to panic and tactical disintegration.
End of the Battle
The battle lasted about 90 minutes with 268 U.S. soldiers killed, including Custer.
Archaeological evidence refutes the gallant last stand myth.
The last fighting occurred not on Custer Hill but in Deep Ravine.
Indian accounts describe a rout with soldiers in disarray and panic.
Aftermath
Impact on the U.S. Army: The battle was a significant defeat and a blow to U.S. military prestige.
Impact on Northern Plains Indians: Despite their victory, it marked the beginning of the end of their traditional way of life.
Cultural shifts as U.S. forces increased efforts to confine Native Americans to reservations.
Identification of Soldiers
Vincent Charlie: One of the soldiers whose remains were studied to provide insight into the conditions and makeup of the 7th Cavalry.
Forensic reconstruction has helped identify individuals and provide closure to historical mysteries.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The battle is significant in American history, representing the conflict between expanding U.S. territories and the resistance of Native American tribes.
Modern interpretations are increasingly recognizing the perspective and oral histories of the Native American warriors involved.
Conclusion
The Battle of the Little Bighorn has been mythologized but modern archaeology and Indian oral histories have provided a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the events.