"We live, we die, and like the grass and trees, renew ourselves from the soft clods of the grave. Stones crumble and decay, faiths grow old and they are forgotten but new beliefs are born. The faith of the villages is dust now...but it will grow again....like the trees. May serenity circle on silent wings and catch the whisper of the winds."

It does not require many words to speak the truth.

No man can think for me.

The earth and myself are of one mind.

I believe much trouble and blood would be saved if we opened our hearts more.


Too many misinterpretations have been made ... too many misunderstandings.

I am tired of talk that comes to nothing.

The Earth is the mothers of everyone, and everyone should have equal rights upon it.

You might as well expect the rivers to run backward than to believe that any man who was born free should be contented to be penned up and denied liberty to go where he pleases. We were contented to let things remain as the Great Spirit made them. This I believe, and all my people believe the same. Yox Kalo'(That's all)


Chief Joseph tried every possible appeal to the federal authorities to return the Nez Perce to the land of their ancestors. In 1885, he was sent along with many of his band to a reservation in Washington where, according to the reservation doctor, he later died of a broken heart. Chief Joseph (1840-1904) Leader known for his integrity and honor. Chief Joseph, known by his people as In-mut-too-yah-lat-lat (Thunder coming up over the land from the water).