Makataimeshekiakiak, who was called Black Hawk by the English-Americans who were incapable of pronouncing his name, was born near Rock Island, Illinois. He was raised during the time of the European invasion of the Mississippi Valley.

When the United States squatted on St. Louis in 1804, he refused to allow them to invade his native lands. During the War of 1812, Makataimeshekiakiak joined the deceitful British forces under the leadership of Tecumseh.

In 1832 he led 200 warriors and their families back across the Mississippi. He gained no support from neighboring tribes. Disheartened because of his inability to rally support, he decided to surrender. This was to no avail.

American invaders brutally massacred the Amerindians at Bad Axe River on August 2, 1832. Makataimeshekiakiak was taken captive.

President Andrew Jackson decided to put Black Hawk on display, as one would display a trophy, so he ordered him to be brought east in 1833. He attracted great crowds, as do animals in a zoo. He was forced to cut his hair and wear European attire.

He did not allow these inhumane acts by the government to crush his spirit. He remained proud and his faith intact until his death.