Fort Robinson: Outpost on the Plains

"Fort Robinson: Outpost on the Plains" by Roger T. Grange is a mid-20th century work that vividly recounts the dramatic story of Fort Robinson and the Red Cloud Indian Agency during the Indian Wars. The book examines the complicated relationship between the U.S. Army and Native American tribes, featuring important characters like Indian Agent Dr. J. J. Saville and the legendary Crazy Horse. Starting in 1874, it follows a tense military mission from Fort Laramie to the Red Cloud Agency, where war with the Sioux seems likely, and generals worry about sparking conflict. The author carefully presents the political situation among the Sioux, describing their friendships and changing feelings about the U.S. government. Readers gain insight into Agent Saville's difficult work managing Indian affairs. This sets the stage for the events at Fort Robinson over several important years, marked by military activity and Native American reactions that shaped American history.