The book attempts for the first time to narrate the full story of the Sioux War of 1876, which epitomizes racial conflicts that began millennia ago and still continue unabated today. It covers the genesis of the war and the concealed maneuvers that became necessary to disguise unpalatable features. It follows the strategy and tactics of all the army columns and Indian forces as they campaigned in 1876 to achieve their incompatible goals. It carries the conflict to its dramatic and tragic conclusion.

Includes index.

Foreword / Robert M. Utley ; Part I. The narrative. Cultures in conflict -- The president's dilemma -- The president's escape -- Mobilization in secret -- First check on Powder River -- Tempers flare in Washington -- All alone on the Yellowstone -- Crock and Terry reorganize -- Junction on the Yellowstone -- Second check on the Rosebud -- Terry scraps his first plan -- Terry plans again -- Custer hits the trail -- The eve of disaster -- Checkmate on the Little Big Horn -- Rescue and retreat -- Estivation in tandem -- A punishing stern chase -- Reconnaissances, rumors, and recriminations -- Terry's campaign fizzles out -- Crook's consolation prize -- Victory at the agencies ; Part II. Facets. The medical service and the wounded -- The quick and the dead -- A Little Big Horn chronology -- The Indian population -- The gathering of the winter roamers -- The summer migrations -- The strength of the Little Big Horn Village.