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Essay / Analysis of Chief Joseph and the Neez Perce War Book
This book contains numerous historical documents and eyewitness accounts, including statements by U.S. Army officials, Nez Perce tribal elders, and statements personal information of Chief Joseph. Beal stated at the beginning of the book that he had to prepare an accurate and documented historical account of the Nez Perce Campaign of 1877. He used major sources such as survivors or descendants of those who participated in the action, the Library of Congress, the National Archives, and contacted all historical sources in general. Beal acknowledged that some sources were biased, but in order to present all sides, he included this information. As a result, this book is unbiased because it shows both sides of the story. Chief Joseph uttered these famous words which still persist today. “I’m tired of fighting. Our leaders are killed. ….It's cold and we don't have blankets. Little children freeze. ...Listen to me, my leaders, I am tired; my heart is sick and sad. From where the sun is now, I will fight no more forever. These powerful words truly describe, in essence, the dire situation this leader and his people found themselves in and the great inner anguish he felt. Therefore, even today, many find these words piercing