Chief Joseph
1840 - 1904
Biography
Chief Joseph, also known as Hinmatóowyalahtqit in his native language, was a leader of the Wal-lam-wat-kain (Wallowa) band of Nez Perce in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. He is widely remembered for his principled resistance to the US government's efforts to force his tribe onto a reservation. Despite his efforts to maintain peace and negotiate with the authorities, he was eventually forced to flee with his people in an attempt to reach Canada. Following a long and arduous journey, they were cornered just 40 miles from the border, where Chief Joseph made his famous surrender speech, ending with the memorable words 'From where the sun now stands, I will fight no more forever.'
Famous Quotes (5)
Hear me, my chiefs! I am tired. My heart is sick and sad. From where the sun now stands, I will fight no more forever.
It does not require many words to speak the truth.
We took an oath not to do any wrong to each other or to scheme against each other.
Treat all men alike. Give them the same law. Give them all an even chance to live and grow.
The earth is the mother of all people, and all people should have equal rights upon it.