Nimosom Mistahimaskwa: Chief Big Bear - The Cree People, Treaty 6 & Human Rights

This is a series of photos and words about some of Nimosom Mistahimaskwa.. Grandfather & Chief Big Bear’s .. life, with a mini-biography and some accounts of his Peacemaking.. ----------------------------------------- Mistahimaskwa (Big Bear), Plains Cree chief (born near Fort Carlton, SK; died 17 January 1888 on the Little Pine Reserve, SK). Mistahimaskwa is best known for his refusal to sign Treaty 6 in 1876 and for his band’s involvement, in conflicts associated with the 1885 North-West Rebellion. He received his name, Mistahimaskwa, meaning Big Bear, after he had a vision of the Bear Spirit, the most sacred spirit for the Cree. In his power bundle (a sacred and secret bundle that is said to contain protection for the person to whom it belongs), Mistahimaskwa had a bear’s paw, which he wore around his neck during times of danger to provide him with courage and strength. Mistahimaskwa is remembered as a strong and powerful Cree chief and protector of his people. He stoo