In one of the great mobile, fighting retreats in the history of warfare, Chief Joseph led 800 Nez Perce toward freedom at the Canadian border with 2000 U.S. soldiers in pursuit.

For over three months, while travelling 1,700 miles across Oregon, Washington, Wyoming, Idaho and Montana the Nez Perce outmaneuvered and battled their pursuers, despite travelling with women and children

General Howard, leading the opposing cavalry, was impressed with the skill with which the Nez Perce fought, using advance and rear guards, skirmish lines, and field fortifications.

Finally, after a devastating five-day battle during freezing weather conditions with no food or blankets, Chief Joseph formally surrendered.

The campaign is still taught in various military academies, including West Point, as an example of how well a mobile retreat can be conducted.

Many historians do not give the Native Americans the credit they deserve when comes to military tactics. Chief Joseph did the impossible by moving hundreds of his people throughout the Northwest, trying to avoid the United States Army, and at the same time, escape to Canada. He definitely was a military genius, despite any historical prejudices.