Skip to content
The War AtlasThe · War · Atlas

COMMANDER // 1837–1873

Captain Jack

traditional leader or chiefUnited States2 battles1 war

Lifespan

1837 – 1873

1840184518501855186018651870Modoc War · 1872-1873Battle of Lost River — November 29, 1872 · Modoc · Modoc WarFirst Battle of the Stronghold — January 17, 1873 · Modoc · Modoc War

Active service 1872–1873 — 2 battles across 1 war; first command at age 35.

Profile

Kintpuash, also known as Kientpoos, Keintpoos, or by his English name Captain Jack, was a prominent Modoc leader from present-day northern California and southern Oregon. His name in the Modoc language translates to "strikes the water brashly." Kintpuash is best known for leading his people in resisting forced relocation during the Modoc War of 1872–1873. Using the rugged terrain of the Lava Beds in California, his small band of warriors held off vastly superior US Army forces for several months. He remains the only Native American leader to be charged with war crimes. Kintpuash was executed by hanging, along with three others, for their role in the deaths of General Edward Canby and Reverend Eleazar Thomas during peace negotiations.

Source · Wikipedia · Q1397673

Battles (2)

Last verified June 2026
Cite this page →Suggest a correction →