Koitsenko facts for kids

The Koitsenko were a special group of ten amazing warriors from the Kiowa tribe. Their name means "Principal Dogs" or "Real Dogs." These warriors were chosen from all the different Kiowa warrior groups. Being a Koitsenko was a huge honor, showing they were the bravest and most skilled.

Kiowa Warrior Societies

The Kiowa tribe had six different warrior groups during their time as nomads on the plains. Five of these groups were for adult warriors. The sixth group was for boys. These warrior groups were often called "Dog Soldiers." This name came from visions and dreams about dogs. The Koitsenko were known as the "Real Dogs" because they were the best of the best.

Societies for Young and Old

All young Kiowa boys joined the Rabbit Warrior Society. This was the sixth recognized warrior group. As boys grew older, they could join one of the other five adult societies. Some of these adult groups included the O-Ho-Mah Warrior Society, the Kiowa Black Leggings Warrior Society, and the Kiowa Gourd Dance Clan.

The Koitsenko were the most skilled and respected warriors. They were chosen from all the adult warrior societies. These soldier societies helped keep the tribe safe. They also helped with hunting and went to war when needed.

Becoming a Kiowa Warrior

When a young Kiowa man proved himself brave and skilled, he could join one of the five adult warrior societies. Members of these groups were the protectors of the Kiowa people. Other tribes sometimes called them "dog soldiers." These warriors were ready to defend their people with their lives.

The Highest Honor

Becoming a Koitsenko was the ultimate goal for any Kiowa warrior. It was the highest honor they could achieve. To be chosen by all the members of all the warrior societies as one of the ten greatest living warriors was a huge achievement.

Special Emblems of Warriors

Satank, a famous Koitsenko member, wearing a special sash. This portrait was made by William S. Soule in 1870.

The ten members of the Koitsenko society wore special sashes. These sashes showed their important role. The leader of the Koitsenko wore a sash that was black, red, and spotted like an antelope. You can see a spotted antelope sash in the picture of Satank. This was the leadership sash for the Ten.

Kiowa Warrior Traditions Today

Three of the original six Kiowa warrior societies still exist today. Their traditions, dances, and stories have been remembered. This helps keep the unique warrior spirit of the Kiowa people alive.

The "Kiowa Gourd Dance Clan," "O-Ho-Mah Warrior Society," and "Kiowa Black Leggings Warrior Society" are still active for adults. The two youth societies also still exist. However, the Koitsenko group no longer exists in its original form.

Famous Koitsenko Members

• Tohausen
• Guipahgo (also known as Old Chief Lonewolf)
• Satank (also known as Sitting Bear)
• Satanta (also known as White Bear)
• Ko-Et-Hai (meaning "No Retreat")
• Gool-hay-yee (meaning "Everything Red")