Red Crow

Red Crow (c. 1830 – 28 August 1900; also known as Mékaisto (Mi’kasto), Captured the Gun Inside, Lately Gone, Sitting White Bull and John Mikahestow) was a Kainai leader.[1]

Red Crow was born in Kainai territory in modern Alberta to Black Bear and Handsome Woman, and was a descendant of tribal chiefs. He earned a reputation as a warrior during raids against other Indigenous groups in the 1840s and 1850s.[1] He succeeded to the chieftainship in 1870 after the death of his father from smallpox.[2] He was a signatory to Treaty 7 in 1877.[1] In the period after the treaty was concluded, he led the development of agriculture on his reserve.[2]

According to the Canadian Encyclopedia, Red Crow "remained a strong proponent of Indigenous culture and beliefs. In the wake of the disastrous effects of diseases and other external demands, he was a calm and wise leader who contributed to stability during a time of tremendous political and economic change".[1]