Tosahwi facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Tosahwi
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| Penateka Comanche leader | |
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| Born | 1805/1810 |
| Died | 1878/1880 Anadarko Agency |
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Tosahwi (born around 1805-1810, died around 1878-1880) was an important leader of the Comanche people. His name means "White Knife." He was a chief of the Penateka band, one of the main groups within the Comanche tribe. Tosahwi was known for trying to find peaceful ways to deal with the United States government, especially during a time when many conflicts were happening.
Becoming a Leader
Tosahwi grew up to be a respected warrior and leader among his people. In January 1846, he signed an important agreement called the Treaty of Tehuacana Creek. This treaty was a formal agreement between the Comanche people and the Republic of Texas (before Texas became part of the United States).
After 1849, Tosahwi became one of the most important chiefs of the Penateka Comanche. He worked alongside other well-known leaders. He was seen as a strong voice for his people, especially as they faced many changes and challenges.
Working for Peace
Meeting with Generals
In 1861, Tosahwi traveled to Fort Cobb. There, he met with General Albert Pike, a leader from the Confederate States of America. Tosahwi and other Comanche chiefs, including Ten Bears and Horseback, signed an agreement to be allies with the Confederacy during the American Civil War.
Even though he led some raids in the American Southwest during the 1860s, Tosahwi later became the first Comanche leader to surrender to the military. This happened at Fort Cobb in the Indian Territory. This showed his willingness to try and find a peaceful path for his people.
The Medicine Lodge Treaty
In 1867-1868, Tosahwi signed the important Medicine Lodge Treaty as the head chief of the Penateka. A treaty is a formal agreement between different groups or nations. By signing this treaty, Tosahwi agreed for his people to live on a special area of land called a reservation. This reservation was under the control of Fort Cobb.
Tosahwi worked hard to keep his Penateka band out of further conflicts. He successfully prevented them from getting involved in the Red River War in 1873-1874. This war was a major conflict between the United States Army and several Native American tribes, including some Comanche bands. Tosahwi's efforts helped his people avoid more fighting and loss.
Tosahwi passed away around 1878-1880 at the Anadarko Agency, which was a government office on the reservation. He is remembered as a chief who tried to guide his people through very difficult times by seeking peace and cooperation.
