The Battle of the Washita: The Sheridan-Custer Indian Campaign of 1867-69 : Book Review

"The Battle of the Washita" by Stan Hoig offers a thorough and balanced account of the significant historical event that occurred on November 27, 1868. This event involved a confrontation between the United States Army and the Southern Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes. Hoig's book provides a comprehensive exploration of the motivations and actions of both sides, drawing on meticulous research and firsthand accounts to paint a vivid picture of the Washita campaign and its impact on American history.

Hoig begins by establishing the context and tensions leading up to the battle. He delves into the complex relationship between the Native American tribes and the U.S. government, shedding light on the conflicting interests and broken promises that contributed to the conflict. By including a wealth of primary sources, such as testimonies from soldiers and Native Americans involved in the battle, Hoig demonstrates his thorough research and commitment to presenting an accurate depiction of the events.

The narrative then delves into the battle itself, providing a detailed account of the strategies employed by both sides and the ensuing clashes. Hoig's attention to detail brings the battlefield to life, capturing the harsh climate and individual acts of bravery and sacrifice. He does not shy away from the brutal realities of war, presenting an honest and unfiltered portrayal of the battle and its aftermath.

What distinguishes Hoig's work is his balanced approach. Rather than demonizing one side or glorifying the other, he strives to present a nuanced and objective portrayal of the Washita campaign. By exploring the motivations and perspectives of both the Native Americans and the U.S. Army, Hoig encourages readers to form their own opinions and gain a deeper understanding of this significant event in American history.

In conclusion, "The Battle of the Washita" by Stan Hoig is a meticulously researched and balanced account of the 1868 battle. Hoig's narrative style, attention to detail, and use of primary sources make this book an invaluable resource for anyone interested in comprehending the intricate complexities of Native American and U.S. government relations during this period.

What are readers saying?

"The Battle of the Washita," authored by Stan Hoig, offers readers a detailed historical account of the infamous clash between the US Army and the Southern Cheyenne tribe in 1868. Critiqued by a number of readers, the book has generally been met with a positive reception.

Readers appreciate Hoig's meticulous research and attention to detail, which contribute to the book's comprehensive coverage of the events leading up to and during the Battle of the Washita. Many reviewers applaud Hoig's ability to present a balanced perspective, acknowledging the atrocities committed by the US Army while also recognizing the complexities faced by the Cheyenne tribe.

Hoig's writing style is often described as engaging and easy to follow, making the book accessible to a wide range of readers. By bringing the key individuals involved in the conflict to life, readers develop a connection with these historical figures and gain a deeper understanding of their motivations and actions.

The book also delves into the repercussions of the battle and its impact on US-Indian relations, providing readers with a broader historical context. Hoig's exploration of the wider scope of American history allows readers to grasp the significance of the Battle of the Washita within the larger context.

However, some readers mention that the book may be too dense and detailed for those seeking a more general overview of the conflict. Additionally, a few individuals found the narrative to be slightly dry at times, as the heavy focus on historical facts and analysis occasionally overshadowed the storytelling aspect.

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