How Controversial Was the Dakota Conflict?

In a word, Very.

The Dakota Conflict of 1862, although barely 6 weeks long, killed more Minnesota settlers and civilians than any other Indian war in U.S. history. When it was all over, 38 Sioux warriors were hung on a huge scaffold at Mankato, MN, my home town. This remains the largest mass execution in U.S. history.

"The fate of the condemned is not without its tragic interest. Were they all worthy of death? That question sprang into existence the moment the labors of the (military) commission were ended. President Lincoln, as commander-in-chief of the United States forces, forbade the hanging of anyone convicted by a military commission, without his approval. While none in the state of Minnesota doubted the justice of the finding, opinion was divided outside the state." (Taken from the Ancestry, Life, and Times of Hon. Henry hastings Sibley, L.L.D. page 284.

How controversial was the Dakota Conflict?

Very.

Read all about the Dakota Conflict in the format of your choice at the link below. 2012 is the sesquicentennial of the Dakota Conflict of 1862.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B007O2AMX2