The Long Walk

The forced relocation of the Navajo.

In 1861, the United States was in a virtual war with the Indians of New Mexico. Plans called for them to be relocated—and turned into farmers–from their tribal lands to the Bosque Redondo, north of Fort Sumner. After the Indians were defeated, Kit Carson led them on what’s called The Long Walk. About 8500 men, women and children were marched nearly 300 miles in tough winter conditions. Approximately 300 died; more did so once they reached their destination. But government plans failed and the Navajo were allowed to move back to their tribal lands in 1868.