The Nez Perce endured remarkable hardships along the 1400
mile path. Food often ran short. Children and the Elderly suffered from
starvation and exhaustion, and were plagued by the extreme conditions. Blankets and moccasins suffered extreme use, and
eventually became worn and holey. They often traveled all day, with few and
brief breaks. There were not enough horses to go around, and many people were
forced to walk. Horses grew tired but still pushed on. Winter brought extreme
conditions through the valleys, mountains, and plains. Sickness took its toll
on the people. As they neared the Canadian Border, and the Calvary inched ever closer,
Chief Joseph gave orders to start leaving valuables behind-trade beads, dolls,
parfleches, gorgeous martingales and saddlebags capes, blankets-in order to
move faster (Many of these artifacts can still be founds in Montana).
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