John Gregory Bourke
An Apache Campaign in the Sierra Madre
An Account of the Expedition in Pursuit of the Hostile Chiricahua Apaches in the Spring of 1883
"An Apache Campaign in the Sierra Madre" by John Gregory Bourke is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book details an expedition led by General Crook in pursuit of the fierce Chiricahua Apaches in the Sierra Madre region, aiming to address the conflicts and hostilities that arose during that period. This work provides a first-hand perspective on military campaigns against the Chiricahua band of Apaches, showcasing the complexities of the American military's interactions with Native Americans. The opening of the book introduces the context of rising tensions between the Chiricahua Apaches and American forces, highlighting a recent outbreak of violence that spurred military action. Bourke details the background of the Chiricahua people and the grievances they faced regarding their treatment on reservations, particularly under the authority of local agents. With a mix of historical narrative and personal observation, the author sets the stage for the expedition that would aim to capture or destroy the Apache stronghold, noting the difficulties involved in navigating the complex relationship between the U.S. military and Native American tribes, as well as the geographic challenges presented by the Sierra Madre mountains.