Chief Joseph

Nez Perce Chief Joseph (us.history.wisc.edu)

Chief Joseph was the leader of the Nez Perce tribe, whose lands were in what is now Oregon and Washington in the western United States. Chief Joseph was known to his people as a hero. They called him In-mut-too-yah-lat-lat, which means “thunder coming up over the land from the water”.

He received national attention and was best known for his resistance to the U.S. Government and their attempts to force his tribe onto reservations with the purpose of capturing their land. He fought extremely hard for the rights and freedom of his people. In 1873 it looked as though he had accomplished his goal. However in a few short years the white people would force the Nez Perce off their land and onto reservations. For a while Chief Joseph was able to motivate his troops to defend their land, only to again fail. It was a battle they could not win. Chief Joseph has been recorded saying, “From where the sun now stands I will fight no more forever." American history books have portrayed him as a peace-seeking Chief who, fighting for everyone, whites and Indians alike, to get along. This is the legacy he left behind.

The long haul (www.therunninghorse.com)

Chief Joseph lived among the Nez Perce tribe. They resided in what is now Northeastern Oregon and Southeastern Washington.

This Nez Perce chief still is a hero today because of his resiliency in fighting for what he knew was right. He was able to capture the hearts of his followers and of many Americans. Because of this there have been many schools, dams, and even hospitals named in his honor. Chief Joseph spoke many words of wisdom, providing the nation with a hero to be remembered for generations to come. “If the white man wants to live in peace with the Indian, he can live in peace. Treat all men alike. Give them a chance to live and grow.”

References:

Unknown. Chief Joseph. www.powersource.com/gallery/people/joseph.html

Eastman, Charles A., Craig, Brookie. Chief Joseph, Nez Perce. January 21, 1999. www.indians.org/welker/joseph.htm

Duckstander, Frederick J. The Great Chiefs: Chief Joseph. Rhodes Educational Publication, 2005. nativeamericanrhymes.com/chiefs/joseph.htm