Plenty Coups was the last traditional
chief of the Crow Tribe, renowned for his warrior prowess and prophetic visions
that shaped his people's future. Born near Billings, Montana, he earned his
name through daring coups against rivals like the Sioux and Cheyenne. A
childhood vision in the foretold white dominance over Native lands, advising
cooperation to ensure Crow survival—the chickadee, his spirit guide, symbolized
listening and wisdom.
As chief from his late 20s, Plenty
Coups allied with the U.S. Army in 1876 during the Great Sioux War, aiding at
battles like Rosebud to counter territorial threats. He made multiple
Washington trips to safeguard Crow reservations, retaining most lands amid
allotment pressures. Advocating education as the "greatest weapon,"
he transitioned his tribe to reservation life while preserving traditions.
In 1921, he honored the Unknown
Soldier at Arlington, placing his war bonnet on the tomb. His legacy endures in
Chief Plenty Coups State Park, his donated homestead, and his 1930
autobiography chronicling Crow history.
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