Cochise
(1810?–08 June 1874)
- Edwin R. Sweeney
Extract
Cochise (1810?–08 June 1874), Chiricahua Apache chief, was probably born in southeastern Arizona, the son of either Relles or Pisago Cabezon, prominent leaders of the Chokonen band. Cochise matured in a relatively tranquil period during which relations between his people and Mexico were generally peaceful. In 1831, however, war broke out. Cochise likely participated in a major three-day battle that ended on 23 May 1832, when a Mexican force of 138 men defeated some 300 Chiricahuas near the Gila River....
