Revolt at Fort Laramie

A Virginian major torn between his Southern sympathies and his duty to the fort. He ultimately resigns his commission, passing command to Tenslip, in a move that reflects the clash between personal allegiance and military responsibility. His death in the ensuing battle marks a brutal end to his leadership and the fragile peace he hoped to maintain.

A capable captain who assumes command after Bradner’s resignation. He faces the immediate threat of mutiny and strives to rally volunteers to defend the fort. Tenslip embodies tactical resolve and courage, guiding the defense as Red Cloud presses the siege and the fort’s future hangs in the balance.

An officer navigating a divided garrison, wary of mutiny while striving to uphold orders. His position places him at the crossroads of alliance and restraint as the threat accelerates toward confrontation. He embodies the tension between professional obligation and personal risk.

A Southern loyalist within the garrison who conspires with others to seize the forthcoming gold shipment and support the Confederate cause. His actions highlight the danger of internal betrayal and the pull of mutiny in a fragile peace. His role underscores the corrupting lure of wealth and factional power.

A Union-leaning sergeant who aligns with the anti-secession faction. He represents the voice of the broader Union allegiance within the fort and works to preserve cohesion amidst growing internal conflict. His stance reinforces the complexity of loyalty in a divided outpost.

Sioux Nation leader who negotiates through the treaty while testing the US-garrison relationship. His decision to push for war by leveraging the gold payment creates a direct challenge to the fort’s peace. He is a shrewd, formidable force whose actions drive the central conflict.