On February 17, 1909, Geronimo, the last Native American warrior, passed away at the age of 80 at Fort Sill in Oklahoma. He was a great leader of the Native Americans who fought against the encroachment of Apache lands by Mexico and the United States.
At the end of the 19th century, the era of westward expansion in the United States was a desperate struggle for survival for Native American tribes. Once free to roam vast lands, they had to resist the invasion and oppression of white settlers. At the center of this resistance stood Geronimo, the fearless warrior of the Apache people. His name means “the one who yawns.”
Born in 1829, Geronimo’s exceptional bravery and cunning were evident from his youth. He rocketed to tribal fame after his impressive victories against the Mexican army. But the relentless onslaught of white settlers turned his world upside down. Devastated by the loss of his family and tribe, Geronimo swore vengeance and launched a ruthless campaign of resistance against the white invaders.
With remarkable leadership and bravery, Geronimo led the Apache to numerous victories against white forces. His guerrilla tactics scared his enemies, and his name soon became synonymous with freedom and resistance. In 1886, he was famously surrounded by 5,000 U.S. soldiers, yet, with only 36 warriors, he managed to break through the encirclement and vanish into the wilderness.
Despite his valiant efforts, Geronimo’s resistance eventually crumbled. The Apache, vastly outnumbered, could no longer withstand the relentless assaults from white settlers. On September 4, 1886, after more than three decades of fierce struggle, Geronimo and his remaining warriors finally surrendered to the U.S. military.
After surrendering, Geronimo was taken prisoner and relocated multiple times, including to Florida, Alabama, and, ultimately, Oklahoma. He was exposed to white civilization and tried to adapt to a new way of life, yet deep inside, he never let go of his longing for freedom. Though he ultimately surrendered, his courage and indomitable spirit remain a symbol of Native American resistance and a hero in the fight for freedom.
