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What if the true story of resilience and struggle in American history has been overlooked for too long? Explore the harrowing journey of the Northern Cheyenne tribe after the Battle of the Little Bighorn. From the brutal winter attack on Dull Knife’s village by Colonel Ranald S. McKenzie to the relentless military pursuit leading to the eventual surrender at Fort Robinson, we unravel the heartbreaking events and the courageous leadership of chiefs like Dull Knife and Little Wolf. Join us as we uncover the tribe’s forced relocation to the Southern Cheyenne Reservation, a direct violation of the 1868 Fort Laramie Treaty, and the subsequent challenges they faced.

During the summer of 1877, the Northern Cheyenne's relocation journey led to unexpected cultural exchanges with the residents of Dodge City. These interactions challenged existing stereotypes and altered mutual perceptions. We'll discuss the stark environmental contrasts between the Northern and Southern Plains and what it meant for the Cheyenne's sense of identity and displacement. This episode delves into how these encounters questioned the very essence of a "way of life" and shaped the American historical narrative.

Lastly, we reflect on the legacy of the Cheyenne Exodus and why this significant migration remains lesser-known. This story's relevance to the Great Plains and its commemoration through monuments, museums, and cultural reenactments are discussed. We're honored to be joined by James N. Leiker, author of "The Northern Cheyenne Exodus in History and Memory," who shares his profound insights into this period. Tune in for an enriching conversation that bridges past and present, shedding light on the ongoing relevance of these historical events in contemporary identity struggles and rural depopulation.

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