Black Shawl or Tasina Sapewin (Lakota: Tȟašína Sápa Wiŋ, lit. 'Black-Blanket-Woman') was the wife of Crazy Horse, whom she married in 1871. She was Crazy Horse's second wife.[1] She was a member of the Oglala Lakota and relative of Spotted Tail. She was the sister of Red Feather.[2]
The elders sent Black Shawl to heal Crazy Horse after his altercation with No Water.[3] She was known at the time as having skill in treating bullet wounds.[4]
Black Shawl was presented to Crazy Horse as a potential bride when she was twenty-four, which was considered late for a betrothal.[5] Crazy Horse was twenty-eight when marriage was discussed between the two families.[6]
She had a daughter in 1871, named They Are Afraid of Her. They Are Afraid of Her died at age three, likely of cholera.[7] Black Shawl also developed the same disease, and was treated by Dr. Valentine McGillycuddy.[citation needed]
Crazy Horse's relationship with Black Shawl lasted longer than the other two romantic relationships that he had in his life. They were known to be "sociable in the tipi", indicating a contented home life, and she supported his life as a warrior.[6]
Black Shawl died during a seasonal influenza outbreak in 1927.
Suzan Ball played Black Shawl in the 1955 film Chief Crazy Horse.[8]