Apache Background Information
The Apache traditionally lived in small groups, spread from the southwestern Plains and southern Colorado to New Mexico and Arizona. These are the major Apachean-speaking groups: Chiricahua, Jicarilla, Kiowa-Apache, Lipan, Mescalero, and Western Apache (San Carlos, White Mountain, Cibecue, Tonto).
Until the reservation period, Apaches traditionally maintained nomadic lifestyles. Several extended families comprised local groups or bands. Because of their nomadism, tribal cohesion was minimal, and subsistence was by hunting and gathering. Women held prominent roles in shamanism and ceremonialism.
Before the 20th Century, men conducted raids to acquire horses and booty, and the objective was to avoid the enemy. Warfare was to avenge Apachean casualties previously suffered. Apache groups ferociously resisted Spanish/Mexican intrusions into their territory, American settlers, and later the U. S. Army. Leaders such as Mangas Coloradas, Cochise, Geronimo, Victorio, and many others fiercely fought these incursions.
Today Apachean groups are integrated into the economic systems of the United States. Many Apaches live off the reservations, but those that remain conduct farming and ranching, land management including forestry, hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities, businesses, rodeos and ceremonials. Many groups have casinos and resorts, such as Hon-Dah at White Mountain, Apache Gold at San Carlos, Wild Horse at Jicarilla and Inn of the Mountain Gods at Mescalero, and museums and cultural centers.
Apache
Peyote Fan
Feathers, Glass Beads, and Horsehair
Apache
Fiddle and Bow
Wood