Battle of Horseshoe Bend: Andrew Jackson breaks Creek resistance

Background. Tecumseh visited Creek and other Southeast Indian towns in 1811–1812 to recruit warriors for his war against American territorial encroachment, contributing to Red Stick mobilization. Red Stick raiding of enemy settlements continued, and in August 1813 they attacked an American outpost at Fort Mims. Since Federal forces were committed to the War of 1812 against Great Britain, Tennessee, Georgia, and the Mississippi Territory organized militia forces, which together with Lower Creek and Cherokee allies fought against the Red Sticks.

Campaign. In spring 1814, Jackson's army advanced from Fort Williams through the forest to within six miles of Chief Menawa's camp, Tehopeka, near the Tallapoosa River. The location, known as Horseshoe Bend, was in central Alabama. Jackson's force included 2,700 American soldiers, 500 Cherokee, and 100 Lower Creek allies, who prepared to assault the Red Stick position.

Aftermath. The defeat of the Red Sticks effectively ended the Creek War. On August 9, 1814, Andrew Jackson forced the Creek confederacy to sign the Treaty of Fort Jackson, resulting in the surrender of more than 21 million acres in southern Georgia and central Alabama. This victory solidified U.S. control in the region.