Chief Joseph (Nez Perce)

Chief Joseph was a leader of the Nez Perce, a Native American tribe in the Pacific Northwest. He is best known for his resistance against U.S. government efforts to force his people onto a reservation in the late 1800s. In 1877, he led his tribe on a lengthy, desperate flight across the Rocky Mountains to avoid forced removal, engaging in battles along the way. Despite their efforts, they were eventually forced to surrender. Chief Joseph became a symbol of Native American struggle and resilience, famously declaring, “I will fight no more forever,” as an expression of his desire for peace and justice.