Gila Expedition facts for kids
The Gila Expedition was a military action in 1850. It was also known as the Morehead War. This event involved the California militia and the Quechan people. It happened near where the Gila River and Colorado River meet in Arizona. This expedition was a response to an earlier conflict called the Glanton Massacre. The Gila Expedition marked the start of the Yuma War, which lasted from 1850 to 1853.
Contents
What Caused the Conflict?
The Ferry Business
During the California Gold Rush, many people traveled to California. They needed to cross the Colorado River. A man named A.L. Lincoln owned a ferry. The Quechan people also started their own ferry business. They helped people and their animals cross the river.
Glanton's Actions
A group led by John Joel Glanton caused trouble. They destroyed the Quechan's ferry boat. They also harmed the local Quechan chief. Glanton's group then took over Lincoln's ferry. They mistreated travelers and took their money and goods. In 1850, the Quechan fought back against Glanton's group. Glanton and many of his men were defeated.
The Expedition Begins
California's Response
Later in 1850, the California state government decided to act. They gathered a group of men to go against the Quechan. These men were paid $6 a day. This was California's first military action against Native Americans.
The Expedition's Challenges
On April 16, 1850, 142 men started the expedition. They aimed to confront the Quechan. However, the mission faced many difficulties. The expedition members found themselves surrounded. They were stuck until September 16th.
High Costs of the War
Financial Impact
The Gold Rush made everything very expensive. The cost of supplies and wages was very high. Because of this, the Gila Expedition cost a lot of money. The total cost reached $113,000. This huge amount of money almost caused the state to run out of funds.
