Why Were Bison Killed Off? A Look at the Near Extinction of the American Bison
The near extinction of the American bison, or buffalo, as they are commonly called, is a stark reminder of human impact on the natural world. These majestic creatures, once numbering in the tens of millions across the North American plains, were decimated within a few decades. The primary reason for this dramatic decline is a multifaceted issue involving commercial hunting, government policy, and the expansion of settler colonialism. Put simply, bison were killed off primarily because they became a profitable commodity, and their destruction was strategically used to subdue Native American populations.
The Devastating Era of Commercial Hunting
The Demand for Bison Products
The 19th century witnessed an explosion in demand for bison products, primarily hides. These hides were processed into leather for clothing, belts, and industrial applications, becoming extremely popular and profitable in the eastern United States and Europe. The bison hide trade was the primary driver of the slaughter, with hunters killing bison en masse and shipping the hides back east. The speed and intensity of the hunt were unprecedented, with thousands of animals falling every day.
The Scale of the Slaughter
The scale of the bison slaughter is almost unimaginable. During 1871 and 1872, an estimated 5,000 bison were killed every single day, as hordes of hunters descended onto the plains. This relentless pace continued until the 1880s, by which point the bison populations were on the brink of collapse. By 1889, a mere 85 free-ranging bison were thought to remain, a shocking reduction from the millions that had roamed the continent just decades earlier. This period highlights the devastating effect of uncontrolled commercial hunting on a vulnerable species.
The Impact of Technological Advancements
Technological advancements like the development of faster trains and more efficient firearms played a crucial role. The introduction of high-powered rifles allowed hunters to kill more bison in less time. Trains also enabled hunters to travel deep into bison territory and haul their immense quantities of hides back to market more efficiently. These advancements combined to create a perfect storm that led to the rapid and nearly complete destruction of the bison.
U.S. Government Policy and the Destruction of Bison
Military Strategy
Beyond commercial interests, the U.S. government actively participated in the destruction of bison as a deliberate strategy to subjugate Native American tribes. Bison were a vital source of food, clothing, and spiritual significance for many Native American cultures. By systematically exterminating the bison, the U.S. military and government aimed to deprive Indigenous peoples of their primary resource, making them dependent on government aid and, thus, more easily controlled. This was part of a broader policy of settler colonialism that sought to displace and eliminate Native Americans from their traditional lands.
“Extermination of Indians”
Military commanders openly advocated for the eradication of bison as a way to “control the Indians.” The destruction of the bison was not merely a byproduct of westward expansion; it was a calculated act of warfare aimed at breaking the resistance of Native American tribes. The intent was clear – to eliminate the source of life for the tribes and to force them onto reservations. The horrific efficiency with which it was carried out demonstrates a devastating chapter in American history.
Other Contributing Factors
Bovine Diseases
The introduction of bovine diseases, such as brucellosis, from domestic cattle also played a role in the decline of bison. Though not as significant as commercial hunting and government policy, these diseases did weaken bison populations, making them more susceptible to the pressures of hunting and habitat loss. The diseases, carried over from domestic cattle, are an example of how the introduction of non-native species and the expansion of farming can have unforeseen negative impacts on native wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Bison
1. What is the difference between a bison and a buffalo?
The terms “bison” and “buffalo” are often used interchangeably, but they are different animals. Bison have a large hump on their back, a massive head, and a beard. Buffalo lack the hump and have smaller, more cow-like heads. True buffalo are native to Africa and Asia, while bison are found in North America and parts of Europe.
2. How many bison were killed during the 19th century?
It’s estimated that three to four million bison were killed on the southern plains alone, and many millions more across the entire continent during the 19th century.
3. What products were made from bison?
Bison were primarily hunted for their hides, which were used to make leather for clothing and other items. Their meat was also consumed, and other parts of their body, such as bones and horns, were used for tools and crafts.
4. Why did hunters target bison?
Hunters targeted bison due to high demand for their hides, making the bison trade incredibly profitable. Additionally, some hunters were hired to kill bison as part of the U.S. government’s strategy to subdue Native American populations.
5. Did Native Americans hunt bison?
Yes, Native Americans hunted bison for centuries, but they did so sustainably, using every part of the animal and respecting the herds. The methods and scale of hunting were drastically different between Indigenous hunters and commercial hunters.
6. What is a “red dog”?
“Red dog” is a term used for baby bison, which are born with an orange-red coat.
7. How many bison exist today?
There are approximately 20,500 Plains bison in conservation herds and about 420,000 in commercial herds today.
8. Where do bison live now?
Bison can be found in national parks like Yellowstone and in commercial ranches throughout North America. Conservation efforts have worked to increase their numbers, but a full recovery is still ongoing.
9. Are there any pure bison left?
It’s unlikely that there are any bison left that are completely free of cattle genes. Some studies suggest that most, if not all, herds have some degree of cattle introgression.
10. What is bison meat like?
Bison meat has a slightly sweeter, more delicate flavor than beef and is considered leaner, with less saturated fat. It is also rich in iron, which can give it an “earthy” or “mineral” taste.
11. Are bison burgers made of bison?
Yes, bison burgers are made from bison meat. Commercial bison farms raise bison for meat.
12. Why do bison sometimes smell?
Freshly opened, vacuum-sealed bison meat might have a slight metallic smell due to the iron in the meat reacting with the air. This odor is brief and does not affect the taste.
13. How long do bison live?
The average lifespan for a bison is 10–20 years, though some can live longer.
14. What is brucellosis and how does it affect bison?
Brucellosis is a bacterial disease that can cause miscarriages in cattle and bison. It was introduced into North America by exotic cattle.
15. Who is credited with saving the bison from extinction?
James “Scotty” Philip is remembered as the “man who saved the buffalo” due to his efforts to preserve the American bison in the early 20th century. He started a large herd on his ranch that provided a seed population for conservation.
The near-extinction of the American bison serves as a powerful lesson in the consequences of overexploitation, the destructive power of prejudice and the importance of conservation efforts. Today, while they are no longer on the brink of extinction, maintaining their populations remains a vital part of preserving North America’s ecological and cultural heritage.