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Chief Joseph, Oliver Otis Howard, and the Nez Perce War: A Saga of Betrayal, Resistance, and Resilience

Cade Simmons

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Published in Thunder In The Mountains: Chief Joseph Oliver Otis Howard And The Nez Perce War

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The Nez Perce War of 1877 stands as a pivotal chapter in American history, a tragic tale of broken promises, cultural clashes, and the indomitable spirit of a Native American leader. At the heart of this conflict lay Chief Joseph, a man of remarkable intelligence, courage, and unwavering loyalty to his people; and General Oliver Otis Howard, a Civil War hero whose reputation would forever be tainted by his role in the war.

Thunder in the Mountains: Chief Joseph, Oliver Otis Howard, and the Nez Perce War

by Daniel J. Sharfstein

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
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This comprehensive article delves into the complexities of the Nez Perce War, exploring the motivations of its key players, the battles that shaped its course, and its enduring legacy. We will examine the factors that led to the outbreak of hostilities, the strategic brilliance of Chief Joseph, the controversial tactics employed by the U.S. Army, and the ultimate outcome of the conflict.

The Roots of Conflict

To understand the Nez Perce War, it is essential to trace its roots back to the mid-19th century, a period marked by the rapid expansion of white settlements into Native American territories. The Nez Perce, a proud and independent tribe, had long occupied vast lands in present-day Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. However, the discovery of gold in their region brought an influx of miners and settlers, leading to increasing tension and conflict.

In 1855, the U.S. government negotiated the Treaty of Walla Walla with the Nez Perce, establishing a reservation for them in Idaho. However, the treaty was repeatedly violated by unscrupulous settlers and government officials, sparking resentment among the tribe.

Chief Joseph: A Visionary Leader

Chief Joseph, born in 1840, emerged as the undisputed leader of the Nez Perce during this tumultuous period. Known for his exceptional oratory skills and profound understanding of his people's traditions, he sought peaceful coexistence with white Americans. However, he was also fiercely protective of his tribe's land and way of life.

As tensions escalated, Chief Joseph pleaded with the government to honor its treaty obligations. When his appeals fell on deaf ears, he reluctantly led his people on a desperate exodus from their ancestral homeland in 1877.

General Oliver Otis Howard: A Controversial Figure

Pursuing Chief Joseph and his followers was General Oliver Otis Howard, a decorated Union commander during the Civil War. Despite his reputation as a skilled strategist, Howard's handling of the Nez Perce War would prove to be a major stain on his legacy.

Howard, known for his harsh treatment of Native Americans, believed in the superiority of white civilization and saw the Nez Perce as a threat that needed to be subdued by force. His relentless pursuit of Chief Joseph, often using tactics that violated the laws of war, would ultimately lead to unnecessary bloodshed.

The Battles and the Exodus

The Nez Perce War was characterized by a series of bloody battles, each a testament to the determination of both sides. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, the Nez Perce, under Chief Joseph's guidance, displayed remarkable tactical skill, employing guerilla warfare to outmaneuver their pursuers.

The Nez Perce, led by chiefs such as Looking Glass, White Bird, and Ollokot, fought valiantly at White Bird Canyon, the Clearwater River, and Big Hole, inflicting heavy losses on the U.S. Army. However, they also suffered significant casualties, including the tragic death of Chief Looking Glass.

As the war raged on, Chief Joseph and his people embarked on an epic exodus, covering over 1,170 miles in an attempt to reach Canada and escape the clutches of the U.S. Army. Along the way, they faced starvation, disease, and relentless pursuit by Howard's troops.

The Surrender and Its Aftermath

In October 1877, after months of relentless pursuit, Chief Joseph and his remaining followers were finally surrounded and forced to surrender near the Bear Paw Mountains in Montana. Famished

Thunder in the Mountains: Chief Joseph, Oliver Otis Howard, and the Nez Perce War

by Daniel J. Sharfstein

4.7 out of 5