During the Plains Wars, Red Cloud was known as the "Despot of the Plains." He was a prominent Lakota leader who effectively united various tribes to resist U.S. encroachment on their lands. Red Cloud led successful campaigns against the U.S. military, most notably during Red Cloud's War (1866-1868), achieving significant victories that forced the U.S. government to negotiate treaties that recognized Native American sovereignty. His leadership and tactical prowess earned him respect and recognition, shaping the resistance against the westward expansion and the U.S. government's policies toward Native American tribes during the 19th century.