Which Indian tribe kills John Thornton and the rest of the group?

The Yee-hats are the Indian tribe responsible for killing John Thornton and the rest of his group in "The Call of the Wild." This encounter highlights one of the novel's central themes of the brutal and unforgiving nature of the wild and the struggles for survival. The Yee-hats are depicted as fierce warriors who represent the dangers that loom over the characters within the wilderness. Their actions serve as a catalyst for Buck’s final transformation as he fully embraces his instincts and connection to the wild after the loss of those he loves.

The other options – the Scots, Francois, and Curly – do not contribute to John Thornton's fate. The Scots is not a tribe mentioned in the context of the story. Francois is a supporting character who is part of Buck's earlier experiences in the team, while Curly is a dog who is part of Buck’s journey but does not play a role in the death of John Thornton or the group. This context helps clarify the significance of the Yee-hats in the narrative, marking a pivotal moment in the story.