Study Questions
1. Why were the Poncas to be sent off their land?

2. How many Poncas died a year after they arrived in the Indian Territory?

3. Why did General Crook oppose returning the Poncas to the Indian Territory?

4. What was the legal argument made on Standing Bear’s behalf?

5. Was the murderer of Big Snake punished?

Answers
1. After Custer’s defeat, Congress decided the Poncas needed to be removed to the Indian Territory.

2. Nearly one-quarter of the tribe died.

3. General Crook was outraged by the tribe's plight, and he was especially impressed by Standing Bear.

4. The argument made on behalf of Standing Bear was that he was a “person” and therefore had rights under the Constitution.

5. No, the government did not pursue the murderer.