Nez Perce

Who are the Nez Perce?

The Nez Perce, or nimíipuu, are an Indigenous people whose name means 'we, the people' in their own language. They are part of the Sahaptian language group and have lived in the Columbia River Plateau for at least 11,500 years. Their community is held together by a shared language, history, and cultural practices, including salmon fishing and horse breeding. Today, they maintain a distinct identity and self-government through the Nez Perce Tribal Executive Committee.

Where do the Nez Perce live?

The Nez Perce homeland centers on the southeastern Columbia River Plateau, especially in present-day Idaho. Historically, their territory covered parts of Idaho, Washington, Oregon, and Montana, including river valleys and mountain regions. The land provided salmon, game, and roots. Today, they live mainly on a reservation in Idaho, which is only a small part of their original territory.

What language do the Nez Perce speak?

The Nez Perce speak Nimiipuutímt, a Sahaptian language of the Plateau Penutian family. Some community members still speak the language, though English is also widely used. Efforts to preserve and revitalize Nimiipuutímt continue through tribal programs and education.

How do the Nez Perce live?

Traditionally, the Nez Perce relied on fishing, especially for salmon, as well as hunting, gathering, and some farming. They bred the Appaloosa horse, which became central to their culture and economy. Today, they manage salmon hatcheries, lease land, and operate casinos, clinics, and other enterprises. Many also work in wage jobs or crafts, balancing modern livelihoods with traditional practices.

How is Nez Perce society organised?

Nez Perce society was organized into regional bands and villages, with kinship and cooperation at the core. Families moved seasonally to follow resources. Leadership was often based on respect and consensus, with chiefs and councils guiding decisions. Marriage and alliances with neighboring peoples were common, and the community remains close-knit today.

What do the Nez Perce believe?

The Nez Perce practice a mix of traditional beliefs, including the Seven Drum (Walasat) religion, and Christianity. Animism, or belief in the spiritual presence of natural elements, is also important. Rituals, music, and art are part of community life. Salmon and the land hold deep spiritual meaning, reflected in ceremonies and daily practices.

The history of the Nez Perce

The Nez Perce were once the largest tribe on the Columbia Plateau, with a vast network of trade and alliances. After contact with Europeans, they faced epidemics, land loss, and war. The 1863 'Thief Treaty' and the Nez Perce War of 1877 forced them onto reservations and reduced their land. Despite these hardships, they maintained their culture and political presence. Their population declined sharply by the early 20th century but has since grown.

Nez Perce life today

Today, the Nez Perce number over 3,500 and are a federally recognized tribe in Idaho. They govern their own affairs, own businesses, and manage natural resources. While they only own a fraction of their reservation, they continue to assert their rights and revive their language and traditions. Salmon fisheries and cultural programs remain central to their identity.

Questions people ask about the Nez Perce

Sources and further reading

• Nez Perce on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data

This page was written with AI assistance from the sources above and checked automatically before publishing. It may contain mistakes, and it is no substitute for hearing from the Nez Perce themselves. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-02.