Spotted Tail, Richmond, Chow

Spotted Tail was not a hereditary chief but developed his standing as a capable warrior. As he grew older-- an influential warrior. Setting him apart from other young men was the fact that he always planned the fights beforehand. He had a great deal of strategic ability and leadership capabilities. He was not praised by all of his people, the Lakotas, and sometimes his tactics earned him enemies…. As this happens to all leaders. Was revolutionary in believing the Indians opposing the white invasion and movement into his homeland would do no good. Instead became a spokesman for the tribe and sought peace and defended the rights of the tribe. He was killed by one of his own for reasons only one can stipulate, but were never clear. In leadership, all won’t agree with you but you must do what’s right. Spotted Tail’s past brilliance in war and his self-sacrifice in prison won the notice of many, but that recognition paled when compared to the attention he would receive for his leadership skills. In negotiating with Fort Laramie 1866 peace stance, he saved his band from yet another conflict, impressing both the Americans and tribal leaders who desired peace. Meticulously researched with over 100 pages of notes and bibliography, Spotted Tail is the epitome of what a real warrior leader represents, one that many these days should take heed of. Instead of opposing change, he transformed landscape and forced his people to confront new situation and conditions, which they did according to Spotted Tail’s vision from the time he became spokesman in 1866.