War Chief Joseph

No single Indian in American History embodies so completely the attributes of the perfect leader as Chief Joseph, leader of the Nez Perces in their last days of independence. A military genius, a diplomatic strategist, a conciliator in time of war and peace, an able counsellor in tribal personal matter, he represents the best in Indian leadership. Although this great leader was a military genius of the first order, he was destined to bring his forces to defeat and the loss of all that was important to them - their lands, their horses, and their independence. But in the dramatic struggle of the Nez Perces for the freedom they considered paramount in life is found one of the most thrilling episodes of Indian history.