The Spanish Indians, who resided in Southwest Florida, were a mix of Creek refugees and people of mixed Native American and Spanish, possibly even Calusa, descent. On December 4, 1840, responding to attacks by the Spanish Indians, 90 men under the command of Lieutenant Colonel W. S. Harney targeted one of their key leaders, Chakaika (sometimes spelled Chekika).
In Southwest Florida, a blend of Creek refugees and people with mixed Native American and Spanish ancestry resided. On December 4, 1840, the U.S. military responded to attacks by these Spanish colonized Native Americans, led by Lieutenant Colonel W. S. Harney, who targeted Chakaika (also spelled Chekika), a key leader.