“The earth
was created by the assistance of the sun, and it should be left as it was … The
country was made without lines of demarcation, and it is no man’s business to
divide it… I see the whites all over the country gaining wealth, and see their
desire to give us lands which are worthless… The earth and myself are of one
mind. The measure of the land and the measure of our bodies are the same. Say
to us if you can say it, that you were sent by the Creative Power to talk to
us. Perhaps you think the Creator sent you here to dispose of us as you see
fit. If I thought were sent by the Creator I might be induced to think you had
a right to dispose of me. Do not misunderstand me, but understand me fully with
reference to my affection for the land. I never said the land was mine to do
with as I chose. The one who has the right to dispose of it is the one who has
created it. I claim a right to live on my land, and accord you the privilege to
live on yours.”
Heinmot Tooyalaket (Chief Joseph) of the Nez Percés
U.S.
Commissioner of Indian Affairs. Annual Report, 1873, p.527
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