The Dakota War of 1862 began when Dakota warriors, driven by grievances against the U.S. government and encroaching settlers, attacked several white settlements along the Minnesota River. The Dakota people had been severely affected by the effects of broken treaties, which had reduced their landholdings and traditional resources. The situation was exacerbated by a lack of food and other essential supplies as the settlers continued to infringe upon Dakota lands, leading to heightened tensions between the two groups. On August 17, 1862, the violence erupted as the Dakota launched surprise attacks on multiple locations, including the towns of Acton, Fort Ridgely, and Hutchinson. These coordinated strikes resulted in high casualties and marked a significant escalation in conflict in the region.

This conflict represented a turning point in the relationship between Native Americans and settlers, as violence was no longer limited to skirmishes but escalated into a full-scale war. The attacks not only included military confrontations but also involved the taking of hostages and retaliatory actions against unarmed settlers. The Dakota's determination to reclaim their rights and homeland drove the initial assaults, leading the U.S. government to respond with increasing military force.

As the conflict continued, the initial victories for the Dakota would ultimately lead to a brutal counteroffensive involving both U.S. soldiers and militia. The war would have far-reaching consequences, including a significant loss of life on both sides and a tragic aftermath for the Dakota people, who faced removal from their ancestral lands and severe repercussions following their defeat. This war was a poignant chapter in the broader context of the American Indian Wars, underscoring the deep-seated issues surrounding treaties, land rights, and the struggle for survival among indigenous peoples.