Navajo History and Demographics

Early History:

       The Navajo People are one of the indigenous peoples of the American continent. They migrated from the North of the American continent to the Southwest around the 15^th century.  Anthropologists have found artifacts of the Anasazi, the early ancestors of the Navajo at Chaco Canyon.

Encounters with Europeans:

         The coming of European Colonists altered the way of life of the Navajo, as it did all indigenous people. The clash of cultures created conflict. The introduction of Anglo Americans soon led to a treaty between Navajos and the United States Government. The army held all Navajos responsible for all treaty promises, instead of recognizing them as distinct tribal units who made differing decisions. Finally the army decided to gather all the Navajo people and send them to Fort Sumner. Kit Carson rounded up the Navajos, though many hid near such locations as Canyon de Chelly and Navajo Mountain. The Diné refused to surrender, despite Carson destroying their crops and sheep, burning their villages, and killing their families.

The Long Walk:

        Those who survived were sent to Fort Sumner on the "Long Walk," during which approximately 200 Navajos died due to starvation and cruel treatment. Fort Sumner was bitterly disliked by the Navajos who were unable to grow food in the barren land. They felt betrayed by the white man who forced them to leave the area between their four sacred mountains, area, which today comprises the Navajo reservation. The Peace Commission and the Treaty of 1868 allowed the Navajo to return to their land after four terrible years. The Navajo were still tormented, but slowly began to make progress as an individual people, and today carry on their traditions and unique way of life.

Contemporary Life:

         Today the Navajo are self-governing and are recognized as an autonomous state. The state is called the Navajo Nation. It is governed in the same manner as a state. Crimes committed within the boundaries of the Navajo Nation fall within the jurisdiction of tribal courts. The reservation extends into three states: New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah.

Website created by Darlene Anaya