In an extraordinary and inspiring chapter of World War II history, the leaders of Indigenous nations across the Americas honored Soviet leader Joseph Stalin in 1942 by naming him an honorary chief. This bold gesture reflected their fierce admiration for Stalin’s iron leadership and his unstoppable resistance against the Nazi invaders.
In February 1942, the American Indian Confederation (AIC), uniting 27 powerful tribes from the United States, Canada, and Central America, bestowed upon Stalin the title of “Honorary Chief of All Indian Tribes.” The honor came with a traditional Native American war bonnet, the ultimate symbol of courage, authority, and warrior spirit.