Barboncito
Barboncito was a prominent Navajo leader known for his resistance and negotiation efforts during a turbulent period in the 19th century. At the age of twenty-six, he signed a treaty with American representatives amidst the Mexican War, marking the beginning of his complex relationship with white settlers. Barboncito gained attention during the 1860 attack on Fort Defiance, where he joined forces with fellow Navajo leader Manuelito. Despite attempts to work toward peace, circumstances led him and his brother Delgadito back into conflict during the forced resettlement to Bosque Redondo. In 1864, Barboncito was captured and subjected to harsh living conditions that prompted him to escape with a group of followers. After surrendering in 1866, he played a crucial role in the 1868 treaty that established the Navajo Reservation, famously expressing his people's desire to return to their homeland. His story reflects the struggles and aspirations of the Navajo people during a time of significant change and upheaval.
Barboncito
- Born: c. 1820
- Birthplace: Canyon de Chelly, present-day Arizona
- Died: March 16, 1871
- Place of death: Canyon de Chelly, present-day Arizona
Tribal affiliation: Navajo
Significance: Barboncito was a major war chief during the 1863-1866 Navajo War, and he signed the 1868 treaty establishing the Navajo Reservation
At the age of twenty-six, Barboncito agreed to terms of friendship with whites when he signed a treaty with the American representative to the New Mexico territory during the Mexican War. Barboncito came to the attention of American army officers when, in April of 1860, he joined forces with Manuelito on the attack of Fort Defiance. After the skirmish, Barboncito and his brother Delgadito tried to work for peace. During the campaign for “resettlement” to Bosque Redondo, in eastern New Mexico, however, the brothers defiantly rejoined Manuelito.
In 1864, Barboncito was captured and forced to resettle at the Bosque. Unbearable living conditions forced him and five hundred followers to escape. In November of 1866 he surrendered for the second time. In 1868, while signing the treaty establishing the Navajo Reservation, Barboncito eloquently articulated the desires of his people when he said, “We do not want to go to the right or left, but straight back to our country.”