Major General George Crook's Use of Counterinsurgency Compound Warfare during the Great Sioux War of 1876-77
Abstract
This thesis will analyze Major General George Crook's performance during the Sioux War of 1876-1877 and attempt to answer whether or not Crook successfully fought the Native Americans by effectively implementing the concept of counterinsurgency compound warfare. Counterinsurgency Compound Warfare is the simultaneous use of a regular or conventional force and an irregular, indigenous force in unison against a common enemy. A highly skilled conventional force fighting an insurgency will often face significant cultural, ethnic, linguistic and physical challenges. An irregular, indigenous force can meet many of these challenges by working in concert with the conventional force. Major General George Crook sought to utilize Indian allies outside their traditional roles as scouts and utilized his forces in mutually supporting roles within each force's means and capabilities. The efficacy of an indigenous, irregular force is not only military in nature but, when used appropriately and honestly, it can serve as a vehicle of influence with native populations. The mutually supporting nature of this relationship enhances the strengths of both forces while limiting their inherent weaknesses. The thesis will attempt to explain Crook's success when he faced ethnic divisions, interagency rivalry, and political hindrances while displaying adaptability as a leader.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 13, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA483214
Entities
People
- Wesley M. Pirkle
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College