George Armstrong Custer is one of the most written-about figures in American history, and the Battle of the Washita — the attack on Black Kettle’s camp — occupies a specific place in the long debate about his character and his legacy.

Custer was, by most accounts, a man of genuine military ability and extraordinary personal courage.

His record in the Civil War — in which he rose from second lieutenant to brevet major general in four years — reflected both his personal bravery and his tactical skill as a cavalry commander.

He was also reckless, arrogant, and willing to sacrifice subordinates for his own advantage.

Both of these things were true simultaneously.