Quotes by Chief Joseph

We gave up some of our country to the white men, thinking that then we could have peace. We were mistaken. The white man would not let us alone.

I know that my race must change.

I pressed my father's hand and told him I would protect his grave with my life. My father smiled and passed away to the spirit land.

My father... had sharper eyes than the rest of our people.

It makes my heart sick when I remember all the good words and the broken promises.

I only ask of the government to be treated as all other men are treated.

I hope that no more groans of wounded men and women will ever go to the ear of the Great Spirit Chief above, and that all people may be one people.

All men were made by the Great Spirit Chief. They are all brothers.

General Howard informed me, in a haughty spirit, that he would give my people 30 days to go back home, collect all their stock, and move onto the reservation.

I hope that no more groans of wounded men and women will ever go to the ear of the Great Spirit Chief above, and that all people may be one people.