The native Americans had knowledge of the terrain and where lakes, streams, mountains, and slopes were. They were also experts in guerrilla tactics, although the Americans used guerrilla tactics in the American revolution, the native Americans were on another level. The native Americans also had constant supplies as they lived off the land as they have been doing so for years. The Americans had superior firepower. They needed supply routes but they had quick supply routes. The Americans had more advanced artillery (cannons) and technology. Both sides had seasoned generals as native Americans have been infighting for hundreds of years and the Americans had just came over the civil war. The Americans also had superior numbers in most battles. Hope this answers your question.