History books tell us that in 1776, the Navajos numbered four or five thousand and were living in the canyons of Old Navajo land, raising corn and squash and raising flocks of sheep and goats. They gradually spread out into the area of the four sacred mountains and became a wealthy well – nourished people. From 1800 to 1860 they continued to increase in number and power until they became the most dreaded raiders in the area.

This raiding eventually led to their capture in 1864 and to the march to Ft. Sumner New Mexico – a journey remembered by the Navajos as the Long Walk. The hardships suffered by the people in captivity were many, as were those of the people who remained behind, hiding out in the canyons and on the mesas.

In 1868 when the Navajos were allowed to return to their home they numbered just over 8000. They had to make a new start because many of the Hogan had fallen in and their livestock had been killed or scattered. The people camped out and lived on wild food. The first ten years were difficult as drought or insects destroyed their first attempt at crops. In many cases the tools promised by the government did not arrive. Finally, the sheep provided in the treaty of 1868 were given out –two sheep for every man, woman and child.  Now the Navajos could make a new beginning.  From this beginning, they have increased until they are now and business.  They have truly come a long way in 200 years.

To many of the older Navajos on the reservation today, the changes that have occurred during their lifetime have been astounding.  Many of them still remember stories by their grandparents about the Long Walk or about how they hid from the soldiers.  These Navajos recall what it was like when horses and wagons were the main means of transportation and when the journey to Flagstaff took a whole week. The recollections of these people can be very valuable to us all.  We have therefore talked to many individuals in our local communities to get an idea of how they view the changes that have taken place in their lifetime and how they regard the future of their people.

(This essay was taken from the 1976 SHUSH Annual)

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