Casqui

Casqui was a powerful chiefdom in the lowlands of northeastern Arkansas, where the St. Francis River runs through cypress swamps and rich floodplain. Its fortified principal town stood among smaller settlements ruled by the same chief, and the people grew maize on the river terraces. In 1541 Hernando de Soto arrived while Casqui was at war with the neighbouring chiefdom of Pacaha. Spaniards and Casqui warriors attacked the rival town together. De Soto then brought the two chiefs together and arranged a fragile peace before the expedition moved on. At Casqui the Spaniards raised a cross on the mound where the chief's house stood, an act recorded by members of the expedition.