Discovering Idaho’s Native American Heritage
Idaho is home to a rich and diverse history of Native American culture. With over 20 federally recognized tribes, Idaho is home to the largest number of Native Americans in the continental United States.
From the Nez Perce in the north to the Shoshone-Bannock in the south, Idaho’s Native American tribes have a long and storied history. Their cultures are unique and varied, but they are all united by a common bond: a deep connection to the land.
The Nez Perce
The Nez Perce are a Native American tribe that originally inhabited the lands of what is now northern Idaho and eastern Oregon. They are one of the largest tribes in Idaho, with a population of over 4,000 people.
The Nez Perce are known for their horsemanship and their skill as hunters. They were also known for their peacemaking ways. In the 1870s, the Nez Perce were forced to leave their homelands and relocate to a reservation in Idaho. However, they refused to give up their land and fought a war with the U.S. Army. The Nez Perce were eventually defeated, but their story is one of courage and resilience.
Today, the Nez Perce continue to live on their reservation in Idaho. They are a proud people who are committed to preserving their culture and traditions.
The Shoshone-Bannock
The Shoshone-Bannock are a Native American tribe that originally inhabited the lands of what is now southern Idaho and eastern Nevada. They are one of the largest tribes in Idaho, with a population of over 6,000 people.
The Shoshone-Bannock are known for their nomadic lifestyle. They were hunter-gatherers who traveled throughout the Great Basin region in search of food. They were also skilled in basketry and pottery.
In the 1860s, the Shoshone-Bannock were forced to leave their homelands and relocate to a reservation in Idaho. However, they refused to give up their land and fought a war with the U.S. Army. The Shoshone-Bannock were eventually defeated, but their story is one of courage and resilience.
Today, the Shoshone-Bannock continue to live on their reservation in Idaho. They are a proud people who are committed to preserving their culture and traditions.
Other Tribes in Idaho
In addition to the Nez Perce and the Shoshone-Bannock, there are over 20 other federally recognized tribes in Idaho. These tribes include the Coeur d’Alene, the Kootenai, the Bannock, the Paiute, the Shoshoni, the Umatilla, the Walla Walla, and the Yakima.
Each of these tribes has its own unique history and culture. They are all united by a common bond: a deep connection to the land.
Idaho’s Native American tribes are an important part of the state’s history and culture. Their stories are stories of courage, resilience, and a deep connection to the land.
How to Learn More About Idaho’s Native American Tribes
There are many ways to learn more about Idaho’s Native American tribes. Here are a few suggestions:
- Visit a tribal cultural center or museum.
- Attend a powwow or other cultural event.
- Read books and articles about Native American history and culture.
- Talk to Native American people.
By learning more about Idaho’s Native American tribes, you can gain a deeper understanding of the state’s history and culture.
Additional Resources
- National Park Service: Idaho
- Idaho Tribes Commission
- Idaho State Historical Society