Women get short shrift in history across the board. Some of the most unsung are Native American warriors.
Here are a few to know about:
Buffalo Calf Road Woman, Cheyenne, 1844 - 1989
She rode into battle to save her brother, Chief Comes in Sight, rallying her tribe to a win. She fought beside her husband in the Battle of the Little Bighorn, and according to tribal lore, delivered the blow that knocked General Custer off his horse, leading to his demise.
Lozen, Chiricaha Apache, 1840 - 1889
The sister of Victorio, a prominent chief, she helped him and his band escape the San Carlos Reservation and fought against American forces. According to James Kaywaykla, a child at the time, “"She could ride, shoot, and fight like a man, and I think she had more ability in planning military strategy than did Victorio.”
Moving Robe Woman, Hunkpapa Sioux, 1854 - 1935
At 23, Moving Robe Woman also rode into the Battle of the Little Bighorn to avenge her brother, who was killed by Custer’s men. “I thought of the death of my young brother, One Hawk. I ran to a nearby thicket and got my black horse. I painted my face with crimson and braided my black hair. I was mourning. I was a woman, but I was not afraid.”
Fascinating women blanket history!
Who’s your favorite female hero?
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For updates about Martha’s forthcoming books, news and giveaways, subscribe to her website: MarthaEngber.com.
THE FALCON, THE WOLF AND THE HUMMINGBIRD a historical novel, Sept. 19, 2023
BLISS ROAD, a memoir
WINTER LIGHT, a novel
THE WIND THIEF, a novel
GROWING GREAT CHARACTERS, a resource for writers
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