Joseph "Joe" Medicine Crow, a towering figure in the history of the Crow Nation, passed away on Sunday, April 3, 2016, at the age of 102. His death marked the end of an era, as he was the last surviving war chief of the Crow tribe, a respected elder, a dedicated tribal historian, and a pioneer in education within his community. He died at a hospice house in Billings, Montana; his passing was confirmed by his half-sister, Louella Whiteman Runs Him Johnson, who stated she was unaware of the specific cause.
A Life Rooted in Crow Tradition
Born into the Whistling Water clan of the Crow Tribe, Joe Medicine Crow‘s early life was steeped in the rich traditions and history of his people. He spent his formative years in a log house on the Crow Reservation near Lodge Grass, Montana, raised by his grandparents. This upbringing instilled in him a deep connection to his heritage and a profound understanding of Crow culture.
He was known by several names within his community. His Crow name was Pádhitshíh-wahpah, and he was also known as Raven, Peelatchiwaaxpash. These names, bestowed upon him according to Crow custom, reflected aspects of his character and destiny.
His childhood was filled with stories of the past, passed down through generations. He vividly recalled listening to accounts of the Battle of Little Bighorn from those who had been present, including his grandmother’s brother, White Man Runs Him, who served as a scout for Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer. These firsthand narratives shaped his understanding of history and ignited his lifelong passion for preserving Crow oral traditions.
Trained as a Warrior
Medicine Crow’s grandfather, Yellowtail, played a pivotal role in shaping him into a warrior, adhering to the traditional Crow ways. The training began at a young age, around six or seven, and involved a rigorous physical regimen designed to toughen both his body and spirit. This included running barefoot in the snow, a practice intended to build resilience and fortitude. This rigorous training was not merely about physical strength; it was about cultivating the mental and spiritual qualities necessary for leadership and survival in a challenging environment.
An Educated Pioneer
Joe Medicine Crow broke barriers by becoming the first member of his tribe to earn a master’s degree, which he received in anthropology in 1939. His academic pursuits reflected his commitment to understanding and documenting his own culture, as well as bridging the gap between the Crow world and the broader academic community.
For over half his life, he served as the official Crow Historian. In this role, he meticulously cataloged the nomadic history of his people, gathering firsthand accounts of pre-reservation life from fellow tribal members. This dedication to preserving oral history ensured that the stories and experiences of past generations would not be lost to time. His work provided invaluable insights into Crow culture, social structures, and historical events.
A Warrior in Two Worlds
Herman Viola, curator emeritus at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American Indians, aptly described Medicine Crow’s significance: "I always told people, when you meet Joe Medicine Crow, you’re shaking hands with the 19th century." This statement encapsulates his unique position as a link to a bygone era, a living embodiment of Crow history and traditions.
Medicine Crow’s warrior spirit extended beyond the historical context of tribal warfare. During World War II, he served with distinction, earning the title of war chief through a series of courageous acts. These included stealing horses from an enemy camp, a feat reminiscent of traditional Crow warfare, and engaging in hand-to-hand combat with a German soldier, whose life he ultimately spared.
His bravery and service were recognized with the Bronze Star Medal and the French Légion d’honneur, further highlighting his contributions to the war effort. Despite his experiences in a global conflict, he maintained a nuanced perspective on warfare, stating, "Warfare was our highest art, but Plains Indian warfare was not about killing. It was about intelligence, leadership, and honor."
A Prolific Author and Storyteller
Medicine Crow was a prolific author, writing or contributing to nearly a dozen books throughout his life. His works included Crow Migration Story, Medicine Crow, the Handbook of Crow Indian Laws and Treaties, Crow Indian Buffalo Jump Techniques, and From the Heart of the Crow Country: The Crow Indians’ Own Stories. He also penned a children’s book titled Brave Wolf and the Thunderbird: Tales of the People.
His autobiography, Counting Coup: Becoming a Crow Chief on the Reservation and Beyond, was particularly acclaimed, earning recognition from the National Council for the Social Studies as a "Notable Tradebook for Young People" in 2007. Through his writing, he shared his personal experiences, insights into Crow culture, and perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing Native American communities.
A Bridge Between Cultures
Upon returning from the European front, Medicine Crow was appointed the official tribal historian by the Crow Tribal Council, a position he held for over 60 years. His remarkable memory allowed him to accurately recall names, dates, and events from the oral history he had absorbed as a child. He had personal connections to the past, having known four of the six Crow scouts who were present at Custer’s side at the Battle of Little Bighorn.
Despite his deep connection to tradition, Joe Medicine Crow embraced progress and worked to bridge the gap between Crow cultural heritage and modern society. He narrated American Indian exhibits in major museums across the country, bringing the stories of his people to a wider audience. He also wrote the play and provided the narration for the Annual Battle of the Little Bighorn Reenactment held in Hardin, Montana, near the Crow Reservation.
Even as his hearing and eyesight faded in his later years, Medicine Crow continued to lecture on the Battle of Little Bighorn and other significant events in Crow history, sharing his knowledge and wisdom with audiences of all ages.
A Legacy of Inspiration
In the years leading up to his death, Medicine Crow remained in Lodge Grass, surrounded by his family. His wife of over 60 years had passed away in 2009.
His impact on his community and beyond was profound. Herman Viola noted that "He really wanted to walk in both worlds, the white world and Indian world, and he knew education was a key to success."
Gov. Steve Bullock recognized his profound impact, stating, "Joe was a Crow war chief, veteran, elder, historian, author, and educator. His legacy will forever serve as an inspiration for all Native Americans – and all Montanans."
U.S. Sen. Steve Daines added, "Medicine Crow’s spirit, humility and life achievements leave a lasting imprint on Montana’s history."
In 2009, President Barack Obama awarded Joe Medicine Crow the Presidential Medal of Freedom, recognizing him as "a warrior and living legend" whose military service, educational achievement, and dedication to cultural preservation made him a "symbol of strength and survival." During the White House ceremony, Obama referred to Medicine Crow as "a good man, a ‘bacheitche’ in Crow. His life reflects not only the warrior spirit of the Crow people, but America’s highest ideals."
He was also nominated for the Congressional Gold Medal and received honorary doctoral degrees from the University of Southern California and Montana’s Rocky Mountain College. Furthermore, he was made a Knight in the French Legion of Honor.
Joe Medicine Crow’s life was a testament to the enduring strength and resilience of the Crow people. He left behind a legacy of cultural preservation, educational achievement, and unwavering commitment to his community. His passing marked the end of an era, but his stories and contributions will continue to inspire generations to come.