Delgadito (Apache chief) facts for kids

Delgadito was an important leader, also known as a nantan, of the Apache people. He belonged to the Mimbreño group, specifically the Copper Mines band of the Tchihende Apaches. The Tchihende were one of the main groups of central Apaches, alongside the Chiricahua and Ndendahe.

A Brave Apache War Leader and Chief

Delgadito started his journey as a young warrior. He then became a war leader and later a chief. He fought alongside famous Tchihende chiefs like Juan Josè and Fuerte. Later, he served under their successors, Mangas Coloradas and Cuchillo Negro. Mangas Coloradas was the main chief of the "Coppermine" Mimbreños. Cuchillo Negro led the "Warm Springs" Mimbreños.

Delgadito eventually became the chief of the "Coppermine" Mimbreños, taking over from Mangas Coloradas. He was a key figure in Apache battles until the mid-1860s. He worked with other well-known leaders like Cochise (who led the Chiricahua Apaches) and Nana. Younger leaders like Victorio, Loco, Juh, Chihuahua, and Geronimo also rose to fame during this time.

Working with Other Apache Leaders

Delgadito often stood with Mangas Coloradas and Cuchillo Negro. He helped them in talks with both North Americans and Mexicans. In the spring of 1850, Delgadito and other Mimbreño chiefs signed a peace treaty. This agreement was made in Janos, Mexico, with representatives from Chihuahua.

Meeting with U.S. Officials

In June 1851, Delgadito, along with chiefs Ponce and Coleto Amarillo, went with Mangas Coloradas to Santa Rita del Cobre. There, they met John Russell Bartlett. Bartlett was a U.S. commissioner. He was appointed by Washington to work on the United States and Mexican Boundary Commission. The Apache leaders hoped for fair dealings. However, they soon felt let down and betrayed by the new Anglo-American settlers.

Challenges with New Settlers

In that same year, 1851, the copper mines at Santa Rita del Cobre were reopened. Many white miners moved into the areas of Pinos Altos and Santa Rita. They began to take control and showed favoritism towards Mexicans, based on agreements with the Mexican government.

Despite the good intentions of chiefs like Mangas Coloradas, Cuchillo Negro, Delgadito, Ponce, and Coleto Amarillo, things became very difficult. These chiefs tried many times to stop their warriors from reacting strongly. But the relationship between the Apaches and the newcomers grew worse. Eventually, the Apaches broke off their agreements.