Geronimo

Date of Birth: June 16, 1829

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: February 17, 1909

Biography

Geronimo, born Goyahkla on June 16, 1829, was an influential leader and medicine man from the Bedonkohe band of the Apache tribe. He is widely known for his role as a fierce advocate for the rights and freedom of his people during the turbulent period of the late 19th century in the Southwestern United States. Geronimo’s leadership skills were honed through years of resisting efforts by Mexican and American forces to subjugate the Apache people. His name became synonymous with resistance and resilience. Following the death of his family at the hands of Mexican soldiers, Geronimo vowed to defend his people and their way of life. He led numerous raids and was involved in several battles against both Mexican and American military forces. Despite being captured multiple times, Geronimo’s escape and continued resistance became legendary. In 1886, Geronimo finally surrendered to U.S. forces, marking the end of the Indian Wars in the Southwest. He was taken prisoner and later became a symbol of Native American resistance. In his later years, Geronimo converted to Christianity, took part in Wild West shows, and even rode in President Theodore Roosevelt’s inaugural parade in 1905.

5 Interesting Facts about Geronimo

1. Geronimo’s birth name, Goyahkla, means “One Who Yawns.”

2. He was one of the last Native American leaders to formally surrender to the United States.

3. Geronimo was never a tribal chief but was a highly respected medicine man and war leader.

4. After his surrender, Geronimo spent time as a prisoner of war in Florida, Alabama, and finally at Fort Sill, Oklahoma.

5. He dictated his autobiography, “Geronimo’s Story of His Life,” which was published in 1906.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Geronimo

1. “I was born on the prairies where the wind blew free and there was nothing to break the light of the sun.”

2. “We are vanishing from the earth, yet I cannot think we are useless or God would not have created us.”

3. “I should never have surrendered. I should have fought until I was the last man alive.”

4. “I cannot think that we are useless or God would not have created us.”

5. “I will protect my people and their rights.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Geronimo did not accumulate wealth in the traditional sense, as his life was primarily spent in resistance and later as a prisoner of war. However, he earned some money in his later years by participating in Wild West shows and selling autographs and photographs.