Manuelito
Manuelito was a significant Navajo leader and warrior born in southeastern Utah, who rose to prominence during the mid-19th century. He became a key figure in the Navajo resistance against U.S. forces, particularly after the death of his father-in-law, which propelled him into leadership. Notably, Manuelito played a central role in the escalating conflict with federal soldiers, including leading attacks against Fort Defiance in response to aggressive military actions that harmed the Navajo community. His leadership was instrumental during the Navajo War of 1863-1866, a period characterized by intense conflict and suffering for the Navajo people, ultimately leading to their forced relocation.
After the war, Manuelito was part of negotiations that resulted in the establishment of a reservation for the Navajo, securing a territory of 3.5 million acres. He served as the commander of the newly formed Navajo police, enforcing order within the community while also advocating for education. Despite his achievements, Manuelito faced personal tragedies, including the death of his son while attending school, which contributed to his struggles with depression and alcoholism. He passed away from measles and pneumonia, leaving behind a complex legacy as a warrior and leader within the Navajo Nation.
Subject Terms
Manuelito
- Born: c. 1818
- Birthplace: Near Bears Ears Peak (now in Utah)
- Died: 1893
- Place of death: Navajo Reservation, New Mexico
Tribal affiliation: Navajo
Significance: A leader in the Navajo War of 1863-1866, Manuelito was the first commander of the Navajo police, established in 1872
Manuelito, born in southeastern Utah, became a prominent warrior and married the daughter of a well-known leader. When his father-in-law was killed by federal soldiers, Manuelito took his place.
A conflict in 1858 led to greater prominence. Federal soldiers at Fort Defiance in New Mexico demanded the use of pastures that had been reserved for Navajos. When troopers shot Navajo horses, Navajos undertook raids to replace the losses. The Navajo had chosen a leader to negotiate with the Federals; when he resigned, Manuelito was selected in his place.
Manuelito repudiated previous agreements with the United States, so soldiers burned his home. He in turn attacked Fort Defiance in April, 1860, and mauled a pursuing force. The post was abandoned in a treaty signed by Manuelito in February of 1861, but conflict erupted anew at Fort Fauntleroy in September, 1861, after a dispute over a horse race resulted in the slaughter of more than a dozen Navajo by soldiers.
The Navajo War of 1863-1866 was delayed by federal efforts to cope with Confederates, but scorched-earth tactics, including the destruction of Navajo refuges in Canyon de Chelly, soon forced most Navajo leaders to surrender. One of the last was Manuelito, who in September, 1866, led twenty-three starving warriors to join the other Navajo at Bosque Redondo, where many died from disease and lack of food.
Manuelito was one of the delegates who went to Washington in 1868 and secured a reservation of 3.5 million acres. Recognized as a prominent leader by U.S. administrators, in 1872 he became the commander of the new Navajo police. He was ruthless in maintaining order, but he represented the Navajo twice again in Washington and led a rebellion in 1875 against corrupt federal administration.
Manuelito advocated education for the Navajo; ironically, his son died while at school. Depressed, Manuelito resigned as chief and succumbed to alcoholism. He died from measles and pneumonia.