Lessons on Bravery From Crazy Horse

The Oglala Sioux warrior Crazy Horse used to ride bravely past the enemy right before battle, providing them with an easy target to shoot at. This tactic might have appeared reckless, but it actually had a practical purpose.

According to Thomas Powers, author of The Killing of Crazy Horse, these provocative rides past the enemy were designed to get them to empty their guns. Powers also notes that they had a moral purpose too — “to make the enemy weak.” Right after the ride was the ideal time for everyone to attack.

To many observers, no one appeared braver than Crazy Horse. He earned numerous war honors, and always led his men himself in battle. We learn, however, from his friend He Dog that, Crazy Horse didn’t like to start a battle unless he had it all planned out in his head and knew he was going to win. He always used good judgment and played safe.

Despite this prudent approach, Crazy Horse wasn’t afraid to risk death. Regarding Crazy Horse’s brave runs, Powers writes,

This risky tactic required boldness and a readiness to die, and the readiness could not be feigned. The Oglala did not expect always to win. They frankly admitted that death and sorrow were never distant.

Crazy Horse, I believe, provides us all with a valuable lesson about bravery that we can apply to our everyday lives. In order for real courage, we need to be truly accepting of loss and failure. Everyone will lose someone they love or will fail at something they care about. To forge ahead anyway is what bravery is all about. Crazy Horse teaches us to conscientiously prepare for battle, while also be mindful of the risks involved.

Bravery in all things can have a huge impact on those around us. Remembering his friend, He Dog identified the one thing that made Crazy Horse the greatest fighter of the Sioux, “When he came on the field of battle, he made everyone brave.”