Frank Grouard - Chief of Scouts

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Frank Grouard lived one of the most complicated lives of the American West. Born in the South Pacific, captured by the Lakota, adopted into their world, and later serving as one of General George Crook’s most trusted scouts, Grouard stood at the center of some of the most pivotal moments of the Indian Wars.In this episode, we explore Frank Grouard’s full journey — from his early life and years living among the Lakota, to his role as an Army scout during major campaigns like the Battle of the Rosebud, Slim Buttes, and beyond. We also tackle the controversial questions that still surround his legacy, including his connection to the Custer disaster and the debated role he may have played in the events leading to the death of Crazy Horse.Drawing heavily from contemporary accounts, newspaper reports, and Grouard’s own words as recorded by Joseph DeBarthe, this episode doesn’t attempt to label Grouard as hero or traitor. Instead, it lays out the evidence, the contradictions, and the perspectives from all sides — and lets you decide.Frank Grouard’s story is one of survival, loyalty, betrayal, and impossible choices on a frontier that rarely offered clear answers.If you enjoy deep, carefully researched stories from the American West, make sure to like, subscribe, and share. New episodes every week.Sources for ResearchThe Life and Adventures of Frank Grouard By Joe DeBarthe https://archive.org/details/lifeandadventure00debarich/page/n37/mode/2up https://www.wyohistory.org/encyclopedia/frank-grouard-silent-man-plains By Nancy Tabbhttps://sheridanmedia.com/news/179731/history-frank-grouard-chief-of-scouts/ Collection of Newspaper reports on Frank Grouardhttps://www.historynet.com/death-crazy-horse-fables-forensics/ Death of Crazy Horse By John Kosterhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZnP6iHb35bo Wyoming State Museum, Frank’s possible RevolverSources for PhotosRosebud Battlefield Site Magicpiano