Image for Dakota War of 1862

Dakota War of 1862

The Dakota War of 1862 was a conflict between Dakota (Sioux) tribes and the U.S. government in Minnesota. Tensions rose due to broken treaty promises, starvation, and poor treatment of Native people. When a group of Dakota warriors attacked settlements, it sparked a larger, violent struggle. The U.S. military responded with force, resulting in significant casualties and the eventual surrender of Dakota fighters. Following the war, many Dakota were imprisoned, and some were executed or expelled from Minnesota. The conflict highlighted ongoing injustices and hardships faced by Native Americans during westward expansion.