Pakota facts for kids
Pakota was an important Native American leader from the 1800s. His name means "Big Man" in the Yavapai language. He was a leader among the Apache, Yuma, and Yavapai peoples. Pakota lived during a time when Native American tribes and American settlers were trying to find ways to live together peacefully.
A Journey for Peace
Pakota and his nephew, Takodawa, were both Yavapai men. In 1872, a famous general named Oliver Otis Howard chose them for a special mission. They were asked to travel to Washington D.C. to meet with the President of the United States, Ulysses S. Grant.
President Grant wanted to hold a big meeting. He invited Native American leaders from all over the country. His goal was to make peace between the tribes and the new settlers.
General Howard first wanted two other chiefs, Ohatchecama and Jemaspie, to go. But Chief Ohatchecama was worried he might not return home. Chief Jemaspie wanted the President to come to them at Camp Date Creek instead. So, the chiefs decided that Pakota and Takodawa would go in their place. This was a big responsibility for Pakota and his nephew.
Traveling to Washington
In June 1872, Pakota and Takodawa began their long journey. They traveled with General Howard and his assistant, Captain Wilkinson. Also with them were Superintendent Bendell, a missionary named Cook, and Joe Gacka, who was the Yavapai interpreter. Two Native Americans from Camp Grant and two from the Pima tribe also joined the group.
Meeting the President
When they arrived at the White House in Washington D.C., it was a very important moment. Each person in the group received special gifts. They got $50, a document saying they were a "chief," and a medal with President Grant's picture on it. Even though Pakota and Takodawa were not chiefs yet, they were treated with great respect.
Pakota later became known as José Coffee. Takodawa was later called Washington Charley. After his trip, Pakota also explored Los Angeles. He looked for good places where his tribe could farm and build a new home.
