Roman Nose, a name synonymous with courage, strategic brilliance, and unwavering dedication to his people, stands as a monumental figure in the history of the American West. Born around 1823 and tragically killed on September 17, 1868, this Northern Cheyenne war chief, known in his native tongue as Vóhko’xénéhe (also spelled Woqini and Woquini), was a formidable warrior and a symbol of resistance against the encroaching tide of westward expansion. His life, marked by both legendary feats of bravery and heartbreaking loss, offers a profound glimpse into the tumultuous era of the Plains Indian Wars.
From a young age, the boy who would become Roman Nose displayed exceptional qualities. Initially called Môséškanetsénoonáhe, meaning "Bat," he soon earned the warrior name Wokini. This name, interpreted by white settlers as Roman Nose, would resonate throughout the territories, inspiring fear among his enemies and unwavering loyalty among his people. The origin of the name is not definitively known, but it is commonly believed to derive from the distinctive aquiline feature of his nose.
Roman Nose’s reputation as an invincible warrior was widespread. Stories of his battlefield prowess and strategic acumen elevated him to legendary status. His skill and ferocity were so pronounced that the U.S. military mistakenly believed him to be the supreme chief of the entire Cheyenne nation. This misconception speaks volumes about his influence and the impact he had on the military campaigns of the time. He was a true leader of men.
He is regarded as one of the most influential warriors during the Plains Indian War of the 1860s.
While figures like Dull Knife are celebrated for their contributions to intertribal warfare, Roman Nose distinguished himself primarily in battles against the encroaching white settlers. He became a symbol of resistance, fiercely defending Cheyenne territory that encompassed the vital lands along the Republican and Arickaree rivers. These waterways were crucial for sustenance and survival, and their protection was paramount to the Cheyenne way of life.
The year 1868 marked a turning point in the life of Roman Nose and the history of the Cheyenne people. In a celebrated, but devastating, battle against General Forsythe along the Arickaree River, Roman Nose met his demise. This encounter, often romanticized in historical accounts, was a brutal clash between cultures, a testament to the escalating conflict over land and resources. The loss of Roman Nose was a significant blow to the Cheyenne, depriving them of a charismatic leader and a powerful symbol of resistance.
Beyond his reputation as a warrior, Roman Nose possessed a physical presence that commanded respect. Observers, including those who opposed him, noted his exceptional physique and masterful personality. Comparisons were drawn to Greek and Roman gymnasts, highlighting the perceived perfection of his physical form. He was the epitome of strength and agility, a living embodiment of the warrior ideal.
His arrival on the battlefield was said to electrify his men, igniting a fervor that drove them to frenzied action. His personal influence was undeniable, inspiring acts of bravery and daring. However, this same charisma and his penchant for "grand-stand charges" also led to significant losses, with accounts suggesting that he inadvertently sacrificed many young warriors through his own reckless courage. His death, therefore, served as a poignant reminder of the fine line between heroism and self-destruction.
Roman Nose’s commanding presence was further accentuated by his striking appearance. He was known for riding an exceptionally fine and spirited horse, a magnificent steed that mirrored his own untamed spirit. Adorned in his war bonnet and other ceremonial regalia, he presented a captivating spectacle, a visual representation of Cheyenne pride and defiance. It was said that his appearance was so mesmerizing that soldiers were more inclined to gaze upon him than to aim their weapons, accounting for his seemingly miraculous ability to survive numerous engagements unscathed.
Anecdotes surrounding Roman Nose reveal not only his skill as a warrior but also his resourcefulness and sense of humor. One such story recounts a buffalo hunt with his brother-in-law, during which the brother-in-law’s bowstring broke at a crucial moment. With remarkable speed and precision, Roman Nose caught the arrow mid-air and successfully shot the buffalo for his companion, demonstrating his extraordinary athleticism and unwavering camaraderie.
Another tale speaks to his playful nature and willingness to help a friend. When a Sioux man was struggling to court a Cheyenne woman, Roman Nose devised a clever scheme. He arranged for the woman to be "kidnapped" and taken to the Sioux camp, where she would discover her suitor waiting. The story concludes with the couple living happily ever after, suggesting that Roman Nose’s mischievous intervention ultimately led to a successful union.
His influence extended to the Oregon Trail. Roman Nose was a constant thorn in the side of westward expansion, reportedly attacking more emigrant parties traveling along the Oregon Trail between 1860 and 1868 than any other chief. These attacks, born out of a desperate need to protect Cheyenne lands and resources, often resulted in violent clashes and significant losses on both sides.
One particular incident involved an attack on a large party of Mormons. The Mormons, prepared for such encounters, quickly formed a defensive corral with their wagons, sheltering their women, children, and horses. The men stood their ground, repelling the initial onslaught with well-aimed volleys. However, Roman Nose and his warriors continued to circle the wagons, seeking any opportunity to breach the defenses.
During the attack, a Mormon man fell, revealing a bald patch on the top of his head. Roman Nose, seizing the opportunity to demoralize the defenders, loudly proclaimed that he had counted the first coup on the "longest-faced white man" he had ever seen. This act, while seemingly callous, was a calculated attempt to undermine the enemy’s morale and assert Cheyenne dominance.
The final chapter of Roman Nose’s life unfolded during a conflict with a body of scouting troops led by the officer General Forsythe. Initially, Roman Nose believed that he faced a relatively easy task. However, the initial assault failed, and Forsythe’s command entrenched themselves on a small island. Undeterred, Roman Nose urged his braves to renew the attack, promising a trailing war bonnet to the first warrior to reach the island.
Despite his inspiring words, the Cheyenne warriors faced a fierce resistance, and none succeeded in reaching the island. In a desperate attempt to rally his men, Roman Nose personally led the charge, knowing that it meant either victory or death. According to army accounts, the moment was fraught with danger, threatening to overwhelm Forsythe’s command, whose leader was already wounded and incapacitated.
The tide of battle turned when Roman Nose fell. Though his lieutenants were determined to continue the assault, the older chiefs ultimately prevailed, urging them to withdraw. The death of Roman Nose marked a significant turning point in the battle and in the broader conflict between the Cheyenne and the U.S. military.
The loss of Roman Nose reverberated throughout the Cheyenne nation. Had he lived, it is speculated that he would have been a valuable ally to Sitting Bull during the tumultuous events of 1876. His strategic brilliance and unwavering commitment to his people would have undoubtedly played a crucial role in the ongoing resistance against westward expansion.
Charles Alexander Eastman (Ohiyesa), a prominent Native American physician, writer, and reformer, preserved many stories and memories of Roman Nose. Eastman’s accounts provide invaluable insights into the life and legacy of this remarkable warrior, ensuring that his name and his contributions to Cheyenne history are not forgotten.
Roman Nose’s life, though tragically cut short, remains a powerful testament to the courage, resilience, and unwavering spirit of the Cheyenne people. He was a warrior, a leader, and a symbol of resistance against overwhelming odds. His legacy continues to inspire, reminding us of the sacrifices made in the struggle for freedom and the importance of preserving the rich cultural heritage of Native American nations.