Publisher's Synopsis
This long overdue exploration of the lives of Apache women is based on years of research, dozens of interviews and informed by personal friendships. "Women of the Apache nation" sheds light on some of the mysteries surrounding traditional and contemporary Chiricahua Apache culture. Each of the women interviewed emphasizes the importance of storytelling and ritual in preserving Apache heritage. Ceremonies, such as the puberty rites that prepare an Apache maiden for womanhood, are still practised today.;Colourful stories that tell of the feats of little-known Apache warrior women illustrate the fortitude, courage, and cunning necessary for their survival. Lozen, a warrior and medicine woman, threatened to cannibalize her own brother, Chief Victorio of the Warm Springs Apache band, rather than turn him over to government scouts. Years later, Dahteste -- a messenger for Geronimo's band -- and Lozen were responsible for initiating negotiations with the US army that led to Geronimo's surrender.;Stockel artfully weaves elements of Apache mythology, religion, and history into her interviews. None of the women the author speaks with share similar external life experiences, but each embodies the indestructable qualities of the traditional women of "The People": Elbys Naiche Hugar, Kathleen Smith Kanseah, Mildred Imach Cleghorn and Ruey Haozous Darrow. These four women are members of the last generation to have personal recollections of the experiences of the sons and daughters of the historic Apache chiefs and Apache women. With Stockel, these women openly and honestly share their heritage from their contemporary Apache perspective, providing readers with a glimpse of culture which continues to mystify outsiders.;Students of anthropology, women's studies and American studies will welcome this unique book.
