Navajo Nation

Navajo Woman at waterfall ca 1920

Nn border hist map

2430R Navajo Nation Reservation Locator Map

Navajo boy

File:Chief Manuelito.jpg

Chief Manuelito

Navajo Nation is the largest territory occupied by a Native American tribe in the United States, extending into the states of Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah. Covering over 27,000 square miles, it is larger than 10 of the U.S. states and has a population that is predominantly of the Navajo people, also known as Diné. The Navajo Nation has its own government, which includes an executive branch led by a president, a legislative branch with a council, and a judicial system. The capital of the Navajo Nation is Window Rock, Arizona.

History

The history of the Navajo Nation is marked by a series of treaties with the United States, beginning in the mid-19th century. The Long Walk of the Navajo, which occurred in 1864, is a significant event where thousands of Navajo people were forcibly relocated by the U.S. government to an internment camp in Bosque Redondo, New Mexico. Many Navajos died during the march and the internment due to the harsh conditions. In 1868, the Navajo were allowed to return to their homeland after signing a treaty with the U.S. government, which established the Navajo Reservation.

Government

The Navajo Nation government operates under a tripartite system. The executive branch is headed by the President of the Navajo Nation, who is elected every four years. The Navajo Nation Council, which serves as the legislative branch, consists of delegates representing the various chapters (local government units) within the Navajo Nation. The judicial branch is made up of the Navajo Nation courts, including the Supreme Court of the Navajo Nation.

Economy

The economy of the Navajo Nation is diverse, including agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and energy production. The Navajo Nation is rich in natural resources, such as coal, uranium, and natural gas, which have been significant sources of revenue. However, there has been a shift towards renewable energy sources and sustainable development in recent years. Tourism is also a vital part of the economy, with attractions such as Monument Valley, Canyon de Chelly National Monument, and the Navajo Nation Fair.

Culture

The Navajo people have a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional arts such as weaving, silverwork, and sandpainting. The Navajo language is an essential aspect of their culture, with efforts being made to preserve and revitalize it. The Navajo Nation also has its own code of law, which incorporates traditional Diné laws and values.

Challenges

The Navajo Nation faces several challenges, including high rates of unemployment, health issues such as diabetes and COVID-19, and water rights disputes. The COVID-19 pandemic hit the Navajo Nation particularly hard, exposing and exacerbating existing health and economic disparities.

See Also

• Indigenous peoples of the Americas
• Treaties with Native Americans in the United States
• Native American self-determination