Looking Glass’s story within the 1877 flight is one of the most painful subplots of the whole episode, and it directly shapes the events at Bear Paw.

Looking Glass had initially tried to stay out of the conflict entirely.

His Alpowai band was camped peacefully on the Clearwater when, in early July 1877, the army attacked his camp.

The attack was based on the premise that Looking Glass might provide support or warriors to the non-treaty bands who were then in conflict with the army.

There was no evidence of imminent threat from Looking Glass’s camp.

The attack destroyed a peaceful camp, killed some people, and drove Looking Glass and his band into the arms of the people who were already fleeing.