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The Courage Of Houston Essay

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After Houston ran away, he lived with the Hiwassee Cherokee tribe. This tribe consisted of three hundred men, women, and children. The leader of the tribe was Chief Ooleteka who Houston soon developed a close relationship with. In fact, “Ooleteka became more than a surrogate father to young Sam….he adopted him, giving him the name Kalanu (the Raven).” While with the Cherokees, Houston learned to hunt, trap, and fish, and became well versed in Indian lore. Additionally, Houston became skilled at woodworking and he began to carry around wood and a pocket knife, a habit he continued his entire life. Houston also had similar personality traits to the Cherokees. Houston “was simple and brave; he was quiet and reserved and dignified; but when he …show more content…

This infuriated his family, as they believed that he should be entitled to a commission due to his father’s service record. However, Houston simply replied that he “would much sooner honor the ranks than disgrace an appointment.” After completing his training, Houston was assigned to the Thirty-ninth Infantry. Houston rose quickly through the ranks, and was appointed a third lieutenant after only nine months. Houston’s character was the source of this rapid promotion as one of his Colonel’s described him as being “frank, generous, brave; ready to do or suffer whatever the obligation of civil or military duty imposed; and always prompt to answer the call of honor, patriotism, and friendship” During the Battle of Horseshoe Bend, Houston was injured badly. He was shot with an arrow that embedded itself in his thigh. However, after having the wound dressed, Houston returned to the battle, only to be shot twice in the shoulder. Due to his bravery throughout the battle, Houston was promoted to second lieutenant on May 20, 1814. Soon afterward, he headed home to Tennessee in order to recuperate. Sam Houston had proven that he was anything but a common soldier. The character traits that had been forged in battle remained, and Houston used these to gain influence and respect throughout his

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