What is a Warbonnet?

The Native American headdress is a well-known symbol of strength and bravery to the indigenous people of North America. They were actually only worn by a dozen or so tribes of the Great Plains region, such as Sioux, Crow, Blackfeet, Cheyenne, and Plains Cree. 

Headdresses, which include warbonnets, are important because they are only worn by the most powerful and influential members of the tribe. They are a meaningful symbol of respect worn only by those who have earned the right to wear them. A warbonnet symbolizes bravery and honor. Warbonnets are worn by chiefs and warriors, most always men.

The warbonnet is decorated with feathers, frequently from a bald or golden eagle. Each feather is earned by doing a courageous deed. Warbonnets also usually include intricate beadwork and colorful fabric or animal skin. Eagle feathers are still sometimes awarded today to Plains Indians who serve in the military or do other brave deeds.