(1842-1886)

Visionary Cree chief and greatest hunter of his day, Poundmaker demonstrated his concern for the future of his people in his reluctance to accept Treaty # 6. Like his adoptive father — Crowfoot, Poundmaker counselled peace with the whites. In the face of growing frustration over government mismanagement culminating in the North-West Rebellion, he urged restraint, and was able to prevent further bloodshed at the battle of Cut-Knife Creek. Following the rebellion, Poundmaker was jailed for “treason-felony”, and died shortly after his release, a broken and embittered man. Only later was he acknowledged for his uncompromising role as a peacemaker and defender of his people.