The Sand Creek Massacre and Its Impact on Native American History

The Sand Creek Massacre on November 29, 1864, was a brutal attack on Cheyenne and Arapaho people by U.S. troops led by Colonel John Chivington. Initially celebrated as a victory, it was later revealed to be a massacre, leading to military and congressional investigations. The massacre was a result of tensions from the gold rush and conflicts over land. Despite investigations, no justice was served, and the event fueled further Native American resistance. The site was eventually designated a National Historic Site in 2005.

What event marked the beginning of the Colorado War of 1863-1865?

• The Sand Creek Massacre

• The Pike's Peak Gold Rush

• The signing of a peace treaty

• The arrival of the 3rd Colorado Cavalry

Who was dispatched by Governor John Evans to pacify the Native Americans?

• General Samuel Curtis

• Colonel John Chivington

• Black Kettle

• Silas Soul

What was the response of the Cheyenne and Arapaho after the peace talks at Camp Weld?

• They joined the Sioux in the north

• They attacked the settlers

• They traveled to Sand Creek for protection

• They signed a formal treaty

What did Black Kettle raise over his teepee as a symbol of peace?

• A flag of truce

• A red flag

• A Cheyenne tribal flag

• An American flag and a white flag

What was the outcome for the Native Americans at Sand Creek?

• They were massacred, with many casualties

• They successfully defended their camp

• They negotiated a peace treaty

• They captured Chivington's troops

Who refused to allow his cavalry company to fire into the crowd during the massacre?

• Black Kettle

• Silas Soul

• General Samuel Curtis

• Colonel John Chivington

What was the conclusion of the congressional investigation into the Sand Creek Massacre?

• It was an unfortunate accident

• It was a justified military action

• It was a heroic defense by the cavalry

• It was a sedulously and carefully planned massacre

What was the reaction of the U.S. public when details of the massacre surfaced?

• They were indifferent

• They demanded more military action

• They celebrated it as a victory

• They were horrified by its brutality

When was the Sand Creek Massacre designated as a National Historic Site?

• 1998

• 1908

• 1864

• 2005

What has the Sand Creek Massacre traditionally been hailed as in Colorado?

• A tragic event

• A foundational victory for the state

• An unresolved mystery

• A minor skirmish