Apache War facts for kids

The Apache Wars were a series of conflicts between the Apache people and the United States, and earlier, Mexico. These wars took place mainly in the American Southwest and northern Mexico. They lasted for many years, from the mid-1800s until the early 1900s. The main reasons for these conflicts included disagreements over land, resources, and different ways of life.

What Caused the Apache Wars?

The Apache people had lived in the Southwest for hundreds of years. They were skilled hunters and warriors. When settlers from the United States and Mexico began moving into their lands, tensions grew. Both sides wanted control of the same areas. This often led to fighting.

Early Conflicts with Mexico

The Apache–Mexico Wars were some of the earliest conflicts. They started in the 1600s and continued for a long time. These wars were about control of land and resources in what is now northern Mexico and the southwestern United States.

The United States Gets Involved

After the Mexican-American War in 1848, the United States took control of much of the Southwest. This brought American settlers and the Apache people into direct contact. The Apache Wars (1849–1924) refer to this longer period of conflict with the United States.

The Jicarilla War (1849–1855)

One of the first major conflicts was the Jicarilla War. It involved the Jicarilla Apache in New Mexico. This war began because of disputes over land and resources. The Jicarilla Apache fought to protect their traditional hunting grounds.

Chiricahua Conflicts (1851–1886)

The Chiricahua Apache were a strong group known for their fighting skills. They were involved in several wars, including the Chiricahua Wars (1851–1886). A key part of this was the Chiricahua War (1860–1873). These conflicts often involved famous Apache leaders. They fought against the U.S. Army and settlers.

Yavapai War (1871–1875)

The Yavapai War took place in Arizona. It involved the Yavapai people, who were closely related to some Apache groups. This war was also about land and the U.S. government's efforts to move Native American groups onto reservations.

Specific Campaigns

There were also specific military actions, like the Apache Campaign (1873). These were often efforts by the U.S. Army to track down and capture Apache warriors.

The Renegade Period (1879–1924)

Later in the wars, some Apache groups refused to stay on reservations. This time is sometimes called the Renegade Period. These groups continued to fight for their freedom.

Victorio's War (1879–1881)

Victorio was a respected Apache leader. He led his people in a series of battles against the U.S. and Mexican armies. Victorio's War was a fierce fight for survival and freedom.

Geronimo's War (1881–1886)

Perhaps the most famous Apache leader was Geronimo. His war was one of the last major Apache conflicts. Geronimo and his small band of warriors avoided capture for many years. His surrender in 1886 is often seen as the end of the major Apache Wars.

Later Campaigns

Even after Geronimo's surrender, there were smaller conflicts. These included the Apache Campaign (1889–1890) and the Apache Campaign (1896). These were usually efforts to capture small groups of Apache who had not yet surrendered.

The End of the Wars

By the early 1900s, most of the Apache people had been moved to reservations. The wars ended, but the Apache people continued to preserve their culture and traditions.