The Comanche language, Uto-Aztecan (Numic), is closely related to the Shoshoni (Ute) linguistic stock.  Although efforts are now being made to ensure its survival, much of its original vocabulary and pronunciation have been lost due to assimilation from the American colonists; in the late 1800s, Comanche children placed in boarding schools  were discouraged from speaking their native tongue, even punished severely for doing so.

During World War II, a group of 17 young men referred to as "The Comanche Code Talkers" were trained and used by the U.S. Army to send messages conveying sensitive information that could not be deciphered by the enemy.

For more information:

Native American Studies Program at the University of Oklahoma offers a Comanche language course:

Contact: Morris Foster
Dept of Anthropology
Dale Hall Tower
Norman,OK
73019
U.S.A.
phone: (405) 325-3729 (405) 325-3261
fax: (405) 325-3261
e-mail: Morris.W.Foster-1@ou.edu
highest level: Intermediate (second year)
availability: Offered annually
Web site: http://www.ou.edu/anthropology/

World Language Resources offers Comanche language software.

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