I’ve seen a lot of battlefields during my time in the…
““I’ve seen a lot of battlefields during my time in the cavalry, Rob, but I’ve never seen anything like that. There were dead Indians everywhere, and I do mean everywhere: men, women, children. I read in the Deseret News edition a week later that between 250 and 300 Indians were killed. Well, I can tell you the number of dead Shoshone was a lot higher than that. Some of the bodies were in big piles together; others scattered around in smaller bunches and a lot them alone or in twos or threes. Most of ‘em shot at close range–the powder burns on their frozen skin were plain to see. That whole action was a disgrace to the U.S. Army and all those in government that let it happen.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A vivid, graphic account of a massacre, condemning the US Army and government for allowing such brutality.
In simple terms: A brutal massacre condemned as a disgrace.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and confront historical atrocities.
Themes
war
genocide
government responsibility
military ethics
Mood
somber
indignant
reflective
Type
historical
condemnatory
When to use this quote
- military training
- historical education
- policy reform
- public memorials
Key Concepts
colonialism
human rights
historical memory
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we ensure accountability for past atrocities?
- What lessons can modern militaries learn?
A Different Perspective
The account may be limited by personal bias and lack of corroborating sources.