The Apache

Children's Literature

A group of people known as the Athabaskans were the last group of people to come across the Bering Strait that connected Asia and the United States. They eventually divided up into two main groups, the Apache and the Navajo. They settled in an area known as Four Corners. This is where Arizona, Utah, Colorado and New Mexico meet. The Apaches did not unite as a single tribe they organized themselves in bands with their own chief. Apaches families were connected through the mother's linage. Husbands moved in and became a permanent part of his wife's family. They were basically nomads who moved to areas where they could hunt and gather food. Once the horse was introduced they were able to track herds of large animals like the buffalo. Their customs included making clothing by hand and weaving beautiful baskets. Their warrior skills are well known and prominent warriors such as Geronimo are ingrained in our history. Today's Apaches, although they have embraced American culture, continue to maintain their beliefs and cultural heritage. 2005, Thomson Gale, Ages 9 to 12.
—Leila Toledo