Apaches

From 1865 until the mid 1880’s the various tribes that made up the Apache Nation fought a long and skillful "guerilla” campaign throughout the Southwestern part of the U.S.

Although their numbers were never large they spread fear and terror throughout Texas, Arizona, New Mexico and parts of Colorado wherever they raided and fought.

Never operating in large numbers (like the Plains Tribes) they were particularly adept at ambushes, skirmishing and then disappearing into nowhere as the U.S. Cavalry found out time and time again.

The 10th U.S. Cavalry Regiment.

These African American soldiers were formed into a regiment in 1866 and saw almost continuous active service from then until the final subjugation of the Apache and Comanche tribes in the 1880’s Led by white officers the 10th fought primarily in the Southwest states and territories of the Union at that time.

Known to the Indians as "Buffalo Soldiers” because of their strong, tightly-curled black hair (similar in Indian eyes to the fur of the buffalo) these soldiers were tough and loyal and earned a hard-won reputation for bravery, winning a large number of Medals of Honor.