adi, meaning antelopes. In Oklahoma, as early as 1869, the total population of Comanche was estimated at 2,538. During other periods the Comanche numbered 1,399 is 1880, 1,553 in 1898, 1,476 in 1910, 1,718 is 1924, and 2,700 is 1950. Texas, on the other hand, reported that in 1851, the Comanche population totaled 20,000. United States Indian Agent Jesse Stem said this was an exaggerated number and "estimated that the southern Comanche bands, Penateka, living below the Brazos River, under Chiefs Katemise, Buffalo Hump, and YellowWolf, totaled 600; and two friendly northern bands under Chiefs Pahayuka and Shanico, who usually came south to winter in the upper Cross Timbers, at 1,300-making a total of 1,900 Comanche in Texas." Agent Stem noted that this tribe was always on the move, some bands wintering in the upper parts of Texas, hunting buffalo on the northern prairies in summer and again mixing with the Indian tribes of New Mexico. What are some characteristics of the Comanche? "The fullblood Comanche has a bright copper-colored complexion, acquiline nose, and thin lips; he is medium in height and generally heavy-set. Certain tribal leaders became famous in early days on account of their huge size." The members of the tribe were known as the most skillful horsemen of all the American Indians and ranked as the most powerful nomadic tribe on the Plains of the Southwest. Their language became the court language of this region. The Comanche people were hospitable and generous. They were generally rated higher morally than any other nomadic tribe in the region and were noted for their courage in war. These characteristics have prevailed among the Comanche to this day....
