Final answer:
The Apaches sought to maintain their way of life and territory amidst conflicts with US and Mexican forces. They engaged in warfare and made various agreements for reservations, continuing resistance until the capture of Geronimo ended significant opposition.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Apaches, known for their skills in desert and canyon warfare, had been waging conflict against US and Mexican troops along the border regions of New Mexico, Arizona, and Mexico.
The desire for the mission in central Texas likely stemmed from strategic considerations as an effort to maintain their way of life against encroaching settlers and government forces.
The longstanding contention between Native American tribes like the Apaches and encroaching expansionist interests culminated in various agreements and reservations being established, with some leaders such as Cochise accepting relocation for the survival of their people.
The Apache wars continued until the capture of Geronimo in 1886 marked the end of significant opposition. The mission the Apaches wanted in central Texas was part of a broader conflict that involved resistance against Anglo-American settlement and other external pressures threatening their existence and way of life.