Navajo Nation

File:Chief Manuelito.jpg

Navajo Nation Naabeehó Bináhásdzo
Native American reservation
Country	United States
States	Arizona, New Mexico, Utah
Established	June 1, 1868
Government
• Type	Tribal
Area
• Total	27,413 sq mi (71,000 km2)
Population  (2010)
• Total	173,667
• Density	6.3/sq mi (2.4/km2)
Time zone	UTC-7 (MST)
Website	www.navajo-nsn.gov

The Navajo Nation (Template:Lang-nv) is a Native American reservation in the Southwestern United States. It occupies portions of northeastern Arizona, northwestern New Mexico, and southeastern Utah. The Navajo Nation is the largest land area retained by a Native American tribe in the United States, with a total area of 27,413 square miles (71,000 km²).

History

The Navajo people, or Diné, have a rich history that dates back centuries. The Navajo Nation was established on June 1, 1868, following the signing of the Treaty of Bosque Redondo between the Navajo people and the United States government. This treaty allowed the Navajo to return to their homeland after being forcibly relocated to Bosque Redondo in New Mexico.

Government

The Navajo Nation has a unique form of government that blends traditional Navajo practices with modern democratic principles. The government is divided into three branches: the Executive, the Legislative, and the Judicial. The President of the Navajo Nation is the head of the Executive branch, while the Navajo Nation Council serves as the Legislative branch. The Judicial branch is composed of the Navajo Nation Supreme Court and lower courts.

Geography

The Navajo Nation is characterized by a diverse landscape that includes deserts, high plateaus, and mountains. Notable geographic features within the Navajo Nation include Monument Valley, Canyon de Chelly, and Shiprock. The region experiences a semi-arid climate with significant temperature variations between day and night.

Economy

The economy of the Navajo Nation is diverse, with key sectors including mining, agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing. The Navajo Nation operates several enterprises, including the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority and the Navajo Agricultural Products Industry. Tourism is a significant contributor to the economy, with visitors drawn to the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.

Culture

The Navajo culture is rich in traditions, language, and art. The Navajo language, or Diné Bizaad, is widely spoken within the Navajo Nation and is taught in schools to preserve it for future generations. Traditional Navajo art includes weaving, pottery, and sandpainting. The Navajo people celebrate various ceremonies and rituals that are integral to their cultural identity.

Education

Education within the Navajo Nation is overseen by the Navajo Nation Department of Diné Education. The Navajo Nation operates several schools and colleges, including Diné College, which was the first tribally controlled and accredited collegiate institution in the United States.

Health

Healthcare services in the Navajo Nation are provided by the Navajo Area Indian Health Service and various tribal health organizations. The Navajo Nation faces several health challenges, including high rates of diabetes and heart disease. Efforts are ongoing to improve healthcare access and outcomes for the Navajo people.

See also

• List of Native American reservations in the United States
• Navajo language
• Navajo Tribal Utility Authority
• Diné College

External links

• Official website of the Navajo Nation