Apache, that very name struck unforgiving fear in the minds of settlers and tribes throughout the Great Plains and the southwest. Fierce Apache warriors were quick to learn the tactics of their enemies and use it against them. Not only were the Apache cheated by the Americans, but the Spanish (which arrived in 1541) as well. Apache culture is rich with tradition and conflict just like the land they once roamed.
Apache Culture
The Apache people arrived in 850 A.D from Canada to settle the plains and southwest. The word Apache is believed to be derived from a Zuni word meaning “enemy”. Athabscan, which originated in northwestern Canada ,is the main language of the Apache. Apache are divided into 6 different groups Bedonkohe, Chieahen, Chihenne, Apache Chokonen, Nedni and the White Mountain Apache(“Apache History”). All of the Apache tribes are a roaming people and are always on the move. At times they built villages for several months but they never stayed in one location for long. One reason the Apache moved around so much is because they were searching for food and supplies when the seasons …show more content…
The Apache didn’t go down without a fight. One of the most famous and fearsome warriors of the Apache is none other than Geronimo. Geronimo first fought against the newly established Mexican settlers (after they claimed their independence from Spain), and then later the new comers from the United States. Geronimo’s defeat ended the Apache hostilities and their way of life. Geronimo and his warrior band were sent to Fort Sill where he died in 1909. After the death of Geronimo things started to change on the reservation. All of the Apache children were taken unwillingly from their families and sent to boarding schools where they were given new names and learned English. At that point in time the Apache lost their way of life