The period 1865-1890 was one of unparalleled change in American
frontier history. This span of 25 years witnessed the end of the traditional
nomadic lifestyle of the plains Indians, the colonisation of the West by white
settlers, and the first experience of the US army in fighting a form of
irregular warfare for which its soldiers and commanders were untrained, and its
equipment unsuited. That they acquitted themselves so well in the face of
bureaucratic meddling, poor supply and appalling climatic conditions, speaks
highly of the tenacity and physical toughness of the volunteers who served in
the West.
Contents
Introduction * Historical Background * Chronology *
Enlistment * Training * Uniform and Equipment * Weapons * Field Service * Combat
and Tactics * Wounds and Sickness * Campaigns * Sites of Interest *
Glossary