Black Warrior River Basin

The Black Warrior River derived its name from the famous Indian chief Tascaluza (Tuscaloosa) whose name is from the Choctaw word Tashka meaning "warrior" and Lusa meaning "black". (Read) Chief Tascaluza was the paramount chief of a vast domain (with its center presumably near the confluence of the Coosa and Tallapoosa Rivers) and was known by Indians throughout the area at the time of DeSoto's wanderings. He was described by DeSoto's entourage as "so large that, to the opinion of all, he was a giant." (from DeSoto) When DeSoto insisted the chief join the party to the town of Mabila, where DeSoto was assured awaited supplies as well as women, Indians loyal to Tascaluza prepared to repel these European invaders. The slaughter, one of the bloodiest battles between Indians and Europeans ever fought in North America, is often referred to as the first great event in Alabama history. (Keith and Jackson) (For more information, please visit Rivers of Alabama)