The Apache Campaigns. Values in Conflict
Abstract
This thesis examines the engagements between the U.S. Army and the Apache Indians from 1846 ro 1886. It attempts to determine what effects the values of the soldiers and warriors had upon the conflicts occurring during this forty-year period. The examination revealed that many instrumental values held by the soldiers and Apache warriors were directly contradictory, although most conceptual values were not. Instrumental Values assigned to such cultural aspects as land use, property ownership, criminal justice, religious faith, and family and group loyalty differed sharply. Conceptual values for both factions identified the land as important, sought clear and swift justice for crimes, gave freedom of expression to religious beliefs, and emphasized the primary importance of family and group loyalties. Initially, the Apache and Frontier Army co-habited the Southwest peacefully. Then, as Army regulars and volunteers became involved in actions which gave expression to the instrumental values they endorsed and the Apache did the same, warfare erupted. Military policies of extermination and Apache desire for revenge supported its continuation. The conclusion of this thesis is that the differences in instrumental values lead to increased conflict between the Army and Apaches. Lasting peace came only when both warriors focused on shared conceptual values.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA166797
Entities
People
- Linda J. Redman
Organizations
- Oklahoma State University–Stillwater