Reverse image of an unidentified Native American soldier dressed in Union uniform, wearing a plumed slouch hat. The soldier is holding a revolver in his left hand and a sword in his right.

Native Americans fought on both sides during the Civil War, with the Delaware, Kickapoo, Quapaw, Seneca, Shawnee, Osage, and some Cherokees fighting for the Union in their own regiments.

Native Americans saw duty in Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas, and the Indian Territory, including the Battle of Newtonia, Missouri on September 30, 1862, one of the few battles during the Civil War in which Native Americans played a significant role on both sides.

Tintype by Unknown Photographer.

Image Courtesy Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield; WICR 30114