Dukes attended the Spenser Academy, read the law, and practiced in tribal courts.

[1] He fought for the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War under Jackson McCurtain.

[2] After he moved to Talihina, Indian Territory he was elected sheriff for Wade County, Choctaw Nation.

He supported implementing the Atoka Agreement, settling tribal affairs, and using mineral leases to fund education.

[3] He chose not to seek reelection as Chief in 1902 and was succeeded by his predecessor, Green McCurtain.