Demetrio Macías leads a group of poor peasants fighting against the federal forces of Victoriano Huerta during the Mexican Revolution. Many joined Macías because the Federales burned their homes and took their possessions. The story follows this band of rebels as they struggle under unclear leadership, practicing the same abuses they fought against. In the end, Macías has lost his lover and men, reunited with his family with no hope, firing his rifle alone against overwhelming enemies foreshadowing his fate.