Black Horse (Comanche) facts for kids
Black Horse (also known as Tu-ukumah) was an important leader of the Comanche people. He was a respected war chief, meaning he led his people in battles and protected their lands. He lived during a time of great change for Native American tribes in the United States. Black Horse was known for his bravery and his efforts to guide his people.
Contents
Black Horse: A Comanche Leader
Black Horse was a significant figure among the Quahadi band of the Comanche. After another leader named Bull Bear passed away in 1874, Black Horse was chosen to be the second chief. This showed how much his people trusted and respected him. He helped make important decisions for his community.
Early Life and Role
As a war chief, Black Horse played a key role in defending Comanche lands. He was involved in the Red River War, which was a conflict between several Native American tribes and the United States Army. This war took place in the southern plains of the United States. It was a difficult time for many tribes, as they fought to keep their traditional ways of life.
Time at Fort Marion
At the end of the Red River War in early 1875, Black Horse surrendered to the United States Army. This happened at Fort Sill, which was in what was then called Indian Territory. After his surrender, Black Horse was sent far away from his home. He was taken to Fort Marion in St. Augustine, Florida. Ten other Comanche leaders were also sent there as prisoners.
While he was held at Fort Marion, Black Horse's wife and daughter, Akhah, were allowed to join him. They were not considered prisoners themselves. This was a challenging time for Black Horse and his family, being so far from their homeland.
Return Home and Later Years
Black Horse was eventually released from captivity in 1878. He was able to return to the Comanche reservation in Indian Territory. A reservation is an area of land set aside for Native American tribes.
After his return, another Comanche leader named Quanah Parker became a chief. It's important to know that the United States Army appointed Quanah Parker as chief. The Comanche people themselves did not traditionally choose a chief after their leaders had been held captive.
Black Horse passed away around the year 1900. He died in a place called Cache, which was in what was then Oklahoma Territory. His life shows the challenges and changes faced by Native American leaders during that period.
