Because of the Plains peoples' dependence on the buffalo, hunting territories were important, and competition for the best areas gave rise to a warrior culture and the Indian image with which we are most familiar: the buffalo-hunting warrior on horseback. Men gained status by the number of horses in their possession and their valor in defending their territories.

Feathers predominate in the paraphernalia of Plains men, and the eagle feather bonnet has become the most recognized symbol of the American Indian. Traditionally, only men of honor with accomplishments in warfare were eligible to wear these bonnets.

The Plains Indian Wars ended in 1890 with the Battle of Wounded Knee, effectively terminating the functional need for warriors. The warriors' continuing emotional needs, however, resulted in great frustration. Young men could not fulfill the requirements necessary for warriors to attain positions of honor, leadership, and the right to wear the meaningful eagle feathers.

In the twentieth century, by serving in the U.S. military, Plains men--and many other American Indians--have found an opportunity to continue the warrior life. Servicemen receive the same respect once given to warriors on horseback.

The Circle of Relatives