The Comanche are a singular Plains Indian tribe, particularly known for their impressive horsemanship skills. During the Comanche-Mexico Wars in the 19th century, their lands encompassed a 2000 square mile block from the Arkansas River in Colorado to the Rio Grande River in Texas. More than 10,000 Comanche shared the land with their allies, the Kiowa and Plains Apache tribes. That massive block of land straddled three regions of great interest to both the Americans and the newly independent nation of Mexico: the Territory of Kansas, part of a Mexican Territory and Texas. Therein lays the ignition point for a series of battles lasting 46 years.
By the time the 18th century came along, the Spanish had made their way far north of Yucatan, into what is now Texas and New Mexico. They were well aware of the Comanche aptitude for warring, and indeed viewed them as a severe threat to colonization. Eventually a peace treaty was conceived and accepted by both sides, the main point of mutual agreement being the destruction of the Apache nation. Together, the Spanish and the Comanche kept the Apache from raiding Spanish settlements, even traded goods and livestock. Unfortunately, it all fell apart when Mexico gained independence from the Spanish crown in 1821.
For the first few years of independence, Mexico was poor and distracted with conflicts further south. They were working to keep the English and French at bay, as well as other native groups. Plus, since there was no long financial support coming from Spain, Mexico was unable to continue paying 'tributes' to the Comanche. But the Comanche had their own problems. Anglo-Americans were attempting to push into the Comanche lands at the eastern and northern borders, as well as other Native American tribes. Diseases brought in by the Spaniards, English and Germans were wreaking havoc on the Comanche population. Finally, they were left no choice but to ask Mexico for military assistance - which was denied at every request.
The Comanche had a long history of breeding, raising and trading horses, which came in very handy as more Anglo-American settlements popped up around the Comanche territories. The trade relationship grew stronger, and it wasn't long before Comanche found themselves short on inventory. Since they were at odds with Mexico already, the Comanche found it only natural to hop on over the Mexican border and conduct horse-thieving raids. Between 1821 and 1846, raiding Mexican ranches and stealing horses or mules became the get-rich-quick scheme for many young Comanche men seeking to gain respect within their tribe. Having a wealth of horses meant a previously destitute young man could buy or steal a wife.
Unfortunately 45 years of raids in northern Mexico left a wake of devastation. By the beginning of the Mexican-American War in 1846, there was nothing left but abandoned homes and burnt land. Even during the war with the Americans, Comanche continued their raids. It would be another 30 years before the Comanche would cease their raids, and only because of drought and disease. Like the Apache nation, the Comanche were forced to fight for their lands. And like the Apache-Mexico Wars, thousands of lives were lost on both sides; so no one was really the victor.
By the time the 18th century came along, the Spanish had made their way far north of Yucatan, into what is now Texas and New Mexico. They were well aware of the Comanche aptitude for warring, and indeed viewed them as a severe threat to colonization. Eventually a peace treaty was conceived and accepted by both sides, the main point of mutual agreement being the destruction of the Apache nation. Together, the Spanish and the Comanche kept the Apache from raiding Spanish settlements, even traded goods and livestock. Unfortunately, it all fell apart when Mexico gained independence from the Spanish crown in 1821.
For the first few years of independence, Mexico was poor and distracted with conflicts further south. They were working to keep the English and French at bay, as well as other native groups. Plus, since there was no long financial support coming from Spain, Mexico was unable to continue paying 'tributes' to the Comanche. But the Comanche had their own problems. Anglo-Americans were attempting to push into the Comanche lands at the eastern and northern borders, as well as other Native American tribes. Diseases brought in by the Spaniards, English and Germans were wreaking havoc on the Comanche population. Finally, they were left no choice but to ask Mexico for military assistance - which was denied at every request.
The Comanche had a long history of breeding, raising and trading horses, which came in very handy as more Anglo-American settlements popped up around the Comanche territories. The trade relationship grew stronger, and it wasn't long before Comanche found themselves short on inventory. Since they were at odds with Mexico already, the Comanche found it only natural to hop on over the Mexican border and conduct horse-thieving raids. Between 1821 and 1846, raiding Mexican ranches and stealing horses or mules became the get-rich-quick scheme for many young Comanche men seeking to gain respect within their tribe. Having a wealth of horses meant a previously destitute young man could buy or steal a wife.
Unfortunately 45 years of raids in northern Mexico left a wake of devastation. By the beginning of the Mexican-American War in 1846, there was nothing left but abandoned homes and burnt land. Even during the war with the Americans, Comanche continued their raids. It would be another 30 years before the Comanche would cease their raids, and only because of drought and disease. Like the Apache nation, the Comanche were forced to fight for their lands. And like the Apache-Mexico Wars, thousands of lives were lost on both sides; so no one was really the victor.
About the Author:
BookIt.com is an online travel company determined and dedicated to becoming the leader in providing travelers with the most intuitive online booking experience full of relevant information, helpful guides and travel tips. Find great deals on the catalonia riviera maya at BookIt.com!