Biography:
Running Eagle, also known as Pi’tamaka, was a remarkable Native American woman and war chief of the Blackfeet Tribe. She gained renown for her exceptional skills in battle and her bravery on the battlefield. Born into the Piikáni Piegan Tribe of the Blackfeet Nation, Running Eagle was the oldest among her siblings and grew up in Southern Alberta, Canada.
Even as a child, Running Eagle displayed a strong preference for playing with boys rather than girls. At the age of 12, she started wearing boys’ clothing, a decision supported by her father but against her mother’s wishes. Her father, an esteemed warrior himself, imparted his knowledge of hunting and fighting to Running Eagle alongside her brothers. Under his tutelage, Running Eagle quickly developed into a skilled hunter and fighter.
During a hunting expedition, the group was unexpectedly ambushed by the Assiniboine, a rival tribe. In the chaos that ensued, her father’s horse was shot, endangering his life. With unwavering bravery, Running Eagle raced straight into enemy fire, dropping the fresh meat she was carrying, and pulled her father onto her horse, ultimately saving his life. As a result of this incredible victory, Running Eagle was celebrated by her tribe. She was specifically honored with the privilege of singing the Victory Song, and a Scalp Dance was performed in her honor.
While many hailed her heroism, Running Eagle also faced criticism for her behavior. Some members of the tribe feared that other women would follow her example and neglect their duties as wives. Despite these concerns, Running Eagle remained determined to pursue her passions and assert her autonomy.
Tragedy struck when Running Eagle’s mother fell ill and her father was slain in battle against the Crows. Left as the eldest child, she assumed the responsibility of caring for her siblings and managing the household. However, she found the role of caretaker unfulfilling and eventually took a widow into her home to help with her familial duties.
Running Eagle’s successes in battle continued to solidify her reputation as a formidable warrior. On one occasion, when her tribe’s warriors embarked on a raid to recapture stolen horses from the Crow camp, she defiantly accompanied them, carrying her late father’s rifle. The party leader attempted to persuade her to return home, but her determination prevailed, and she insisted on participating. During the raid, Running Eagle single-handedly captured 11 horses for her tribe. Displaying her unwavering vigilance, she stood watch while the men rested during their return to camp. When two enemy Crow men attempted to reclaim the stolen goods, she fearlessly took them down herself.
Running Eagle’s achievements in battle brought her further recognition and acclaim among her people. Her remarkable courage and dedication to defending her tribe’s interests made her a revered figure within the Blackfeet Tribe. Running Eagle’s legacy endures as a symbol of strength and resilience, inspiring future generations to persevere in the face of adversity.