Chief Joseph - War Quotes

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War can be avoided, and it ought to be avoided. I want no war.

Chief Joseph

I said in my heart that, rather than have war, I would give up my country.

Chief Joseph

We had good white friends who advised us against taking the war path. My friend and brother, Mr. Chapman, told us just how the war would end.

Chief Joseph

Whenever the white man treats the Indian as they treat each other then we shall have no more wars. We shall be all alike — brothers of one father and mother, with one sky above us and one country around us and one government for all. Then the Great Spirit Chief who rules above will smile upon this land and send rain to wash out the bloody spots made by brothers' hands upon the face of the earth. For this time the Indian race is waiting and praying. I hope no more groans of wounded men and women will ever go to the ear of the Great Spirit Chief above, and that all people may be one people.

Chief Joseph

It required a strong heart to stand up against such talk, but I urged my people to be quiet and not to begin a war.

Chief Joseph