Battle of Palo Duro Canyon

Significance

The Battle of Palo Duro Canyon was a significant United States victory during the Red River War of 1874–1875. On September 28, 1874, forces under Ranald S. Mackenzie attacked a large encampment of Plains Indians in Palo Duro Canyon in the Texas Panhandle. The engagement struck at the material and logistical base of resistance rather than simply contesting ground, and its outcome contributed to the broader U.S. effort to suppress Plains Indian resistance in the region. The battle stands as one of the decisive engagements of the Red River War, accelerating the collapse of organized resistance and the confinement of Plains peoples to reservations.

Forces & casualties

Commanders (2)