By Tim Huff
President & CEO, TLG
I recently read Empire of the Summer Moon by S.C. Gwynne, and I was enthralled by an amazing story of resilience, ingenuity, and leading through unimaginable change. The story chronicles the rise and fall of the Comanche Empire, focusing on one of its most legendary figures, Quanah Parker. The story of Quanah Parker is not just about the resistance against the relentless expansion of white settlers but also about how to thrive in the face of overwhelming change. His journey from a fierce warrior to a successful businessman is a compelling testament to resilience, adaptability, and the capacity to navigate extreme circumstances of change.
Quanah Parker, the son of Comanche chief Peta Nocona and Cynthia Ann Parker, a white woman captured by the Comanche, grew up in a world of constant conflict. As one of the most formidable warriors of the Comanche, Quanah fiercely resisted the encroachment of settlers on his people’s land. His leadership during the Red River War epitomized the Comanche’s last great effort to preserve their way of life. Yet, despite his relentless resistance, the tide of history was against him. The Comanche were ultimately forced to surrender and relocate to a reservation.
Faced with the collapse of the world he had known, Quanah Parker demonstrated extraordinary adaptability. Rather than clinging to the past, he embraced the changes that were inevitable. Quanah recognized that survival required more than just physical resistance; it required the willingness to adapt and integrate into a new cultural and economic landscape.
Quanah’s transition from warrior to statesman and businessman exemplifies his remarkable ability to thrive amid change. He adopted many aspects of the white culture, including learning English, converting to Christianity, and even advocating for education among his people. But his adoption of these new ways did not mean he abandoned his heritage. He became a bridge between two worlds, ensuring that the Comanche culture could endure even as he navigated the complexities of a rapidly changing society.
As a businessman, Quanah Parker became a successful cattle rancher, leveraging his land and status to build wealth and influence. He used his position to advocate for his people, securing better living conditions and preserving their rights within the new order. His ability to thrive in these extreme circumstances of change is a powerful reminder that adaptability and resilience are key to overcoming even the most daunting challenges.
Quanah Parker’s story, as captured in Empire of the Summer Moon, is not just a tale of resistance but a lesson in how to navigate and succeed in a world of relentless change. His legacy continues to inspire those who face the uncertainties of change today.
