The U.S. - Dakota War of 1862

This course is an introduction to the U.S. - Dakota War of 1862.  It offers a broad glance at the people, places, and events that contributed to this important and tragic part of Minnesota history.  Beginning from pre-European contact, this course on the U.S. - Dakota War creates a context for understanding what happened and why.  Throughout the course, you will learn about the Dakota people and culture.  You will learn about traders, missionaries, and settlers that came to Minnesota and how they impacted the Dakota way of living.  This includes lessons about significant historical figures such as Little Crow, Henry Sibley, Alexander Ramsey, and Stephen Riggs. You will learn how the land exchanged hands through a series of treaties.  You will learn how all these factors contributed the outbreak of War in Minnesota in 1862.  Finally, you will learn about war itself and its unfortunate aftermath, including an understanding of the tragic hanging of 38 Dakota in Mankato, Minnesota, and why it's still relevant today.  By the end of this course, you will have a much better understanding of what the U.S. - Dakota War was and who was involved as well as a much deeper interest in this important history.