Wakara led a pan-tribal coalition of horse thieves that expanded the Old Spanish Trail and made it easier to travel. They also exacted tribute from travelers, stole horses and traded slaves. Mueller writes that Wakara was “the most prolific trader in enslaved Indians” for hundreds of miles, providing white settlers the labor and horsepower needed to expand the colonial empire. He was also a shrewd and pragmatic leader, converting to Mormonism and drawing on the settlers’ own systems to expand his power. Mueller joins us to explore Wakara’s complex life and enduring influence.
Max Mueller and Ute knowledge keeper Forrest Cuch will hold a discussion at the University of Utah on Tuesday, Nov 4, 2025. More information is available about the event here…