Why Did the US Army Contribute to the Extermination of the Bison?
The US Army’s role in the near-extinction of the American bison wasn’t a direct extermination order, but a deliberate strategy to cripple Native American tribes by eliminating their primary food source, clothing, and shelter. This strategy, while not explicitly ordering soldiers to kill every bison, created an environment and provided encouragement that lead to its decimation, supporting why the US Army exterminated the bison.
The Bison: A Lifeline for Native Americans
Before the arrival of European settlers, an estimated 30-60 million bison roamed North America. These majestic creatures were not merely animals; they were integral to the survival and culture of numerous Native American tribes. The bison provided:
- Food: Bison meat was a staple in their diet.
- Clothing: Hides were used for clothing and shelter.
- Shelter: Bison hides created tepees.
- Tools: Bones were fashioned into tools and implements.
- Spiritual Significance: The bison held a sacred place in their beliefs and ceremonies.
Disrupting access to the bison was thus a direct attack on Native American lifeways.
Western Expansion and the Destruction of Habitat
The westward expansion of the United States brought increased pressure on bison populations. Railroad construction fragmented their habitat, and settlers encroached on their grazing lands. This, combined with the introduction of diseases to which the bison had no immunity, began to take a toll.
The Army’s Role: A Strategic Weapon
While civilian hunters played a significant role in the decline of the bison, the US Army’s involvement was particularly insidious. The Army actively encouraged the slaughter of bison as a means of subjugating Native American tribes.
The rationale was simple: eliminate the bison, and you eliminate the tribes’ ability to sustain themselves. As General Philip Sheridan purportedly stated (although historical accuracy is debated), “Let them kill, skin, and sell until the buffalo is exterminated, as it is the only way to bring lasting peace and allow civilization to advance.” Whether or not he spoke those words, the policy of the Army supported this sentiment.
Incentivizing the Slaughter
The Army fostered the decimation through various means, including:
- Providing ammunition to hunters: Allowing civilian hunters easier access to bison.
- Protecting hunters from Native American resistance: Shielding hunters from those trying to protect the herds.
- Turning a blind eye to wanton destruction: Tolerating the wasteful slaughter of bison for their hides only, leaving carcasses to rot.
This isn’t to say every soldier directly participated, but the overall effect was to create an environment where bison slaughter was encouraged and facilitated. Understanding why the US Army exterminated the bison requires recognizing this indirect but crucial role.
The Devastating Consequences
By the late 19th century, the bison population had plummeted from millions to a few hundred. This near-extinction had devastating consequences for Native American tribes, leading to starvation, displacement, and forced assimilation. It was a brutal chapter in American history, demonstrating the destructive potential of using environmental destruction as a weapon of war. The question why the US Army exterminated the bison ultimately boils down to a deliberate, calculated strategy of cultural genocide.
Conservation Efforts
Thankfully, conservation efforts in the late 19th and early 20th centuries helped to prevent the complete extinction of the bison. Today, their populations are slowly recovering, a testament to the resilience of both the animal and the conservationists who fought to save them.
FAQ
Why did the US Army exterminate the bison instead of finding an alternative solution?
The prevailing attitude at the time viewed Native Americans as an obstacle to westward expansion. Eliminating their primary food source was seen as the most expedient and effective way to achieve this goal, regardless of the devastating human cost.
Was there official documentation explicitly ordering the extermination of the bison?
While there may not be direct, unequivocal orders demanding extermination in every military document, the overwhelming evidence points to a deliberate policy of encouraging bison slaughter to weaken Native American tribes. The lack of explicit documentation doesn’t negate the impact of the Army’s actions.
Did all members of the US Army support the bison slaughter?
No, not all soldiers agreed with the policy. Some recognized the injustice of it and even attempted to intervene, but their efforts were often overshadowed by the larger strategic objectives of the Army and federal government.
What role did civilian hunters play in the bison’s decline?
Civilian hunters played a significant role, driven by the demand for bison hides in the East. However, the Army’s protection of these hunters and its tacit approval of their activities amplified the impact of their hunting.
How did the near-extinction of the bison affect Native American culture?
The loss of the bison was catastrophic for Native American culture. It disrupted their traditional way of life, eroded their spiritual beliefs, and forced many onto reservations, dependent on government rations.
What happened to the land that was once bison habitat after they were nearly exterminated?
Much of the land was converted to agricultural use or ranching, further displacing Native American tribes and altering the ecological landscape.
Were there any attempts to stop the bison slaughter at the time?
Yes, there were some early conservation efforts by concerned individuals and organizations, but they faced significant resistance from those who profited from the slaughter or believed in the necessity of subjugating Native Americans.
What are the long-term ecological consequences of the bison’s near-extinction?
The loss of bison had far-reaching ecological consequences, including changes in grassland ecosystems, soil health, and biodiversity.
How does the story of the bison relate to other examples of environmental destruction used as a weapon of war?
The bison story serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of environmental destruction as a tool of warfare, echoing similar instances throughout history, from the scorched-earth tactics of ancient armies to the use of defoliants in the Vietnam War.
What lessons can we learn from the near-extinction of the bison?
The bison’s story teaches us about the importance of conservation, the destructive potential of unchecked greed, and the ethical implications of using environmental destruction as a weapon against indigenous populations. It also shows us the importance of biodiversity for a healthy ecosystem.
What is the current status of bison populations in North America?
Thanks to conservation efforts, bison populations have rebounded significantly from their low point. However, they are still a fraction of their former numbers, and their habitat remains fragmented.
Where can I see bison in the wild today?
Bison can be seen in several national parks and wildlife refuges, including Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and Wind Cave National Park. Many state parks and private ranches also have bison herds.