Sand Creek Massacre

Definition

An event that occurred in 1864 when a Colorado militia attacked a peaceful camp of Cheyenne and Arapaho Indians led by Chief Black Kettle, killing hundreds including women and children.

Analogy

Imagine you're at a peaceful gathering with friends when suddenly an uninvited group crashes your party causing chaos and harm. That's similar to what happened at Sand Creek - only with much graver consequences.

Related terms

Fort Laramie Treaty: An agreement between Northern Plains Indian Tribes and U.S government promising peace & territorial rights but later broken leading to conflicts.

Wounded Knee Massacre: The last major conflict between Native Americans and U.S Army in 1890 where around 300 unarmed Sioux were killed.

Ghost Dance Movement: A religious movement among Native Americans during late 1800s which prophesied a peaceful end to westward expansion and violence against Native Americans.