Battle of Horseshoe Bend
Horseshoe Bend, Tallapoosa River, near Alexander City, Alabama, USA
What happened
A US army under Andrew Jackson, with Cherokee and Lower Creek allies, fought the Red Stick Creek warriors led by Chief Menawa. During the Creek War, the Red Sticks, Creek people who opposed American expansion, built a fortified camp in a sharp bend of the Tallapoosa River. Jackson's army attacked from the front while allied troops crossed the river and surrounded the camp from behind. After more than five hours of fighting, the Red Sticks were defeated; Menawa was wounded but escaped.
Why it matters
Why it matters: It ended the Creek War. In the treaty that followed, the Creek Nation lost about 23 million acres of land, including land belonging to Creeks who had fought on the American side.
What came next
In August 1814 the Creeks signed the Treaty of Fort Jackson, giving up about half of central Alabama and part of Georgia.
Did you know?
Sam Houston, later a famous leader in Texas, fought here as a young officer and was wounded.
Timeline
- 27 March 1814Jackson's army defeats the Red Sticks at Horseshoe Bend.
- 9 August 1814The Treaty of Fort Jackson is signed.