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The Final Stand Of Chief Joseph Sparknotes

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Alvin M. Josephy Jr. 's book The Final Stand of Chief Joseph is a history of the Nez Perce War, which took place in the late 19th century and involved the United States government and the Nez Perce tribe. The book examines the political and cultural factors that sparked the conflict, as well as Chief Joseph's and his people's valiant attempts to fend off American military might.

Prior to the introduction of white settlers, Josephy gives background information on the Nez Perce tribe and their way of life. He discusses the tribe's intricate social structure, close ties to the land, and reputation as expert riders and warriors. He also discusses the negative impacts of sickness and the loss of traditional territories as a result of European colonization …show more content…

Josephy gives a thorough account of the subsequent battles, including the famed Battle of the Great Hole, which saw significant deaths on both sides.

The book's description of Chief Joseph and his military leadership, however, is its most compelling element. Joseph stayed unwavering in his dedication to defending his people and their way of life in the face of enormous obstacles. Josephy contends that his famous "I will fight no more forever" declaration, made upon his surrender to General Oliver O. Howard, has been misunderstood as a declaration of defeat. Instead, he views it as evidence of Joseph's unshakable commitment to his people and to ensuring their survival.

Josephy also examines the conflict's broader political and cultural backdrop throughout the book. He emphasizes the forced assimilation of Native Americans as well as the racism and paternalism displayed by the US government against the various Native American tribes. He also talks on how the Nez Perce War affected the larger fight for Native American recognition and …show more content…

He expresses strong sympathy for the Nez Perce people and the atrocities they endured, but he also recognizes the conflict's complicated political and cultural causes. He steers clear of oversimplified depictions of the Nez Perce as noble barbarians or the US government as oppressive oppressors, offering a more intricate and nuanced view of the historical backdrop.

The book's usage of primary sources by Josephy is another noteworthy feature. To give a thorough and vivid account of the fight, he draws on a variety of historical records, including government papers, private correspondence, and oral accounts. He also gives readers plenty of context and analysis to help them comprehend the value of these sources and how they fit into the overall historical story.

The portrayal of Chief Joseph in The Final Stand of Chief Joseph, however, may be its most touching feature. According to Josephy, Joseph was a visionary leader who cared fervently about his people and their continued existence. Despite being greatly outnumbered and outgunned, he paints Joseph as a cunning strategist who was able to outwit the American military and avoid capture for months. But he also portrays Joseph as a kind and sympathetic leader who genuinely cared about his people's well-being and was profoundly moved by the agony they

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