Joseph (c. 1840-1904), also called Hinmaton-Yalaktit ("thunder coming up
over the land from the water") was born in what is now Oregon.  Like his
father, Joseph became chief of one of the major bands of the Nez Perce
tribe.  In 1873, the U.S. government, citing an old treaty, ordered Joseph
and his people from their land.  Joseph refused, although he did not want
war.  Soon, U.S. Army troops clashed with some Nez Perce braves and
fighting broke out.  Despite some early victories, the soldiers forced
Joseph and about 750 Nez Perce to retreat toward safety in Canada.  Only
forty miles from the Canadian border, Joseph and his people were
surrounded by U.S. troops and forced to surrender.  While surrendering,
Joseph made his famous speech: "hear me, my chiefs ! I am tired; my heart
is sick and sad.  From where the sun now stands I will fight no more
forever."  Joseph and the Nez Perces were transferred to Indian Territory;
they were later sent to the Colville Reservation in Washington State,
where Joseph died in 1904.