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Today in History: Potawatomi Warriors Ambush U.S. Army Convoy

8/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On August 15, 1812, during the War of 1812, Potawatomi warriors ambushed a United States Army convoy near Fort Dearborn in present-day Chicago. Following the evacuation of the fort, the battle lasted about 15 minutes, resulting in a decisive victory for the Native Americans, who subsequently burned the fort.

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Story summary

On August 15, 1812, during the War of 1812, Potawatomi warriors ambushed a United States Army convoy near Fort Dearborn in present-day Chicago. Following the evacuation of the fort, the battle lasted about 15 minutes, resulting in a decisive victory for the Native Americans, who subsequently burned the fort.