You’ve heard the names of legendary Apache war chiefs, titans of Native American history, such as Geronimo and Cochise. These men led entire nations of warriors against invasion by United States forces, overcoming massive obstacles and laying waste to whatever lay ahead of them.

However, men such as Geronimo and Cochise weren’t the only courageous leaders to dominate the battlefields of frontier lore. Both before and during their own reigns as war chiefs, countless men, and even a few women, stepped up to fight for Indigenous land rights and avenge the loss of their peoples.

One such figure was an Apache warrior by the name of Mangas Coloradas, also known by his anglicized name of Red Sleeve. For years, Mangas led his Mimbreño division of Central Apaches into and out of conflict.

First it was the Mexican government, bitter rivals of the Apache. Then it was the United States of America, after a peace treaty was broken in good faith.

As brave and bold as Mangas may have been, his story still remains untold, a story filled with triumph, trials, and worst of all, tragedy.

To ensure his legacy is not forgotten in the footnotes of frontier folktales, here is a deeper dive into his life, and the unjust execution faced by La-choy Ko-kun-noste, translated to “Red Sleeve,” and colloquially known by his Spanish nickname, Mangas Coloradas.

0:00 Introduction
1:40 Born Into Peace, Brought Unto War
12:52 Execution of Injustice

Music produced by CO.AG:    / @co.agmusic  

Thank you for watching.


DISCLAIMER: All materials in these videos are used for educational purposes and fall within the guidelines of fair use. No copyright infringement is intended. If you are or represent the copyright owner of materials used in this video and have an issue with the use of said material, please email us before putting in a claim, and we can resolve the issue immediately. We can be reached on this email: [email protected]

Copyright © 2023 Footprints on The Frontier. All rights reserved.