Everything Everywhere Daily · Thursday, September 24, 2026
Chief Joseph's father extracted a deathbed promise that his son would never sell their ancestral land. This promise guided Chief Joseph's actions throughout his life, even as he and his people faced betrayal by the US government and relentless pursuit. He ultimately died hundreds of miles from his homeland, having fought to uphold his father's dying words.
“You are the chief of these people. They look to you to guide them. Always remember that your father never sold his country. You must stop your ears whenever you are asked to sign a treaty selling your home. A few years more and white men will be all around you. They have their eyes on this land. My son, never forget my dying words. This country holds your father's body. Never sell the bone of your father and your mother.”
“Chief Joseph took these words as a sacred responsibility.”
“Chief Joseph died hundreds of miles from his homeland after a tireless fight to return to his ancestral home, trying to keep his promise to his father. Despite decades of hardship and adversity, he never did sell the sacred Walla Valley, and he fought for it until his very last breath.”