Gherman Alexeyvich Komlev (Russian, 1933 - 2000) "Troops Guarding Wagon Train" Signed lower right. Original Oil painting on Canvas laid on Board.

Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation.

This painting originally appeared on the Fleetwood First Day Cover of the 8c Troops Guarding Wagon Train stamp issued June 18, 1998.

Immigrants moving west constantly passed through hostile Indian lands. Because of the constant threat of attack, the United States Army was often asked to provide protection for settlers and their families. At a meeting with the Army, Hunkpapa Sioux Chief Bear Rib expressed his concerns over the emigration of settlers to traditional hunting grounds. "To whom does this land belong? I believe it belongs to me. If you ask me for a piece of land I will not give it. I cannot spare it, and I like it very much. All this country on each side of this river belongs to me, ... and if you, my brother, should ask me for it, I would not give it to you, for I like it and I hope you will listen to me." His words fell on deaf ears as settlers continued journeying to the West in increasing numbers. By the end of the 19th century, the U.S. Army had fought 24 "Indian Wars" and had participated in over 1,000 skirmishes. Even though the estimated 200,000 Indians of the Far West greatly outnumbered the 20,000 troops stationed at over 100 forts, the Indians stood no chance against the cavalry's superior firepower, supplies and tactics. One tribe after another succumbed and surrendered to be placed on reservations. Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce echoed their sentiments, "Hear me, my chiefs, I am tired. My heart is sick and sad. From where the sun now stands I will fight no more forever." In 1883, General William T. Sherman concluded, "I now regard the Indians as substantially eliminated from the problem of the Army."

Image Size: 10 x 20.5 in.
Overall Size: 12.75 x 22.75 in.
Unframed.
(B16011)

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