The Kootenai War of 1974: A Modern Day Indian Victory

Abstract

In 1974 a mouse roared, on September 20, 1974, the tiny 67 member Kootenai Nation of Northern Idaho declared war on the USA. In the weeks following, almost every aspect of US – Native American interaction was played out on the Kootenai. A disinterested local governor, a dogmatic and intolerant leader of local law enforcement, an overwhelming show of force by police, the appearance of “friends of the Indian”, intense media interest and coverage, and finally government to government negotiations. At the end of the negotiations, the Kootenai Nation had secured a reservation and funding to save the nation from extinction.