Few Americans are aware of this tragic chapter in California history. Forced off their native land and onto a reservation, the Modoc Indians made their final stand in what became known as the "1870s Modoc War." Their leader, nicknamed "Captain Jack" by the settlers, displayed remarkable skill in defending his homeland in the rugged Lava Beds. This story inspired one of the earliest songs by Black Irish Band member Patrick Michael Karnahan, featured on their debut recording in 1991. | Black Irish

In 1873, Lava Beds National Monument in northern California was the site of the Modoc War, an armed conflict between members of the Modoc Tribe and the U.S. Army. The Modoc people wanted to live in their home territory, but troops tried to forcibly relocate them to a reservation. You can learn more about the Modoc people and the history of northern California on Aerial America: Northern California. Tune in tonight at 10PM. http://bit.ly/2z9pMee | Smithsonian Channel