Chief Joseph was a leader of the Nez Perce people who tried to protect his community and their homeland in the Pacific Northwest as the U.S. government forced Native nations from their lands. In 1877 he led his people on a remarkable 1,170-mile journey trying to reach safety in Canada, showing great skill and courage before finally surrendering just short of the border. He is remembered for his powerful words about wanting only peace and fairness for his people, especially his surrender speech's famous closing line: "I will fight no more forever."