Existing comment:
Stand Watie, 1860–65
Stand Watie (or Degataga, Cherokee, 1806–1871) was a controversial figure during one of the Cherokee Nation's darkest times. Occurring only a few decades after the tribe's removal to Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma), the Civil War split the Cherokee and caused widespread destruction.
Watie was elected principal chief of the Confederate-aligned Cherokee, and was awarded the rank of brigadier general -- the only American Indian to achieve that rank in the Civil War -- as commander of the Indian Cavalry Brigade.
Photo by Mathew Brady. National Archives and Records Administration 529026 |