The story of Two Whistles (Ishichoshtupsh) from the Crow people (Apsáalooke) in 1908 is remarkable.
Born in 1856, he belonged to the Mountain Crow of the Not Mixed clan and was associated with the Lumpwood organization. In his youth, at just eighteen years old, Two Whistles led a daring expedition with a small group of men, successfully capturing a hundred horses from the Sioux. He also demonstrated his bravery by engaging in battles against the Arapaho and Sioux at Pryor Creek.
Another significant event in Two Whistles' life was his involvement in the Crow War of 1887. This conflict marked the only armed encounter between the United States and the Crow tribe of Montana, and it was the last "Indian War" fought in the state. During this period, a young medicine man known as Wraps-Up-His-Tail or Sword Bearer led a group of warriors on a raid against the Blackfoot, who had taken horses from the Crow reservation. After the successful raid, Sword Bearer and his warriors returned to the Crow Agency to report their victory. However, a misunderstanding occurred, and the situation escalated, leading Sword Bearer and his followers to seek refuge in the mountains. In response, the United States Army launched a campaign against the 120-150 Crow warriors to bring them back to the reservation.
It was during this conflict that tragedy struck Two Whistles. He sustained severe injuries, being shot in the arm and chest, ultimately leading to the amputation of his arm above the elbow. Despite facing significant challenges, Two Whistles remained resilient and lived a long life, passing away on 22 June 1929 at the age of 72 or 73. His legacy and bravery in the face of adversity continue to be remembered by the Crow people... Continue reading

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