The Navajo Nation, a sovereign entity within the United States, stands as a testament to the enduring strength and resilience of its people. It holds the distinction of being the largest federally recognized Native American tribe in the country, both in terms of population and land area. With over 250,000 enrolled members, the Navajo Nation commands a significant presence and influence in the American Southwest and beyond. Its expansive reservation, a sprawling tapestry of mesas, canyons, and desert landscapes, encompasses approximately 27,425 square miles (71,000 km2), an area larger than many U.S. states. This vast territory stretches across portions of Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah, reflecting the historical and cultural significance of the region to the Navajo people.
Beyond its sheer size, the Navajo Nation is also characterized by a complex and sophisticated system of governance. The Navajo Nation Council, the legislative branch, plays a crucial role in shaping the policies and direction of the Nation. This council is comprised of delegates representing 110 Navajo Nation chapters, or communities, a testament to the diversity and localized interests within the larger tribal structure.
Official Identity and Contact Information
The official name of the tribe is the Navajo Nation. For official correspondence and inquiries, the Navajo Nation can be reached at the following address: The Navajo Nation, P.O. Box 9000, Window Rock, AZ 86515. General inquiries can be directed to their phone number: (928) 871-6000. For further information and access to official documents and resources, the Navajo Nation maintains an official website: www.navajo-nsn.gov. The Nation is federally recognized, underscoring its government-to-government relationship with the United States.
A Name Rich in Meaning
The Navajo people, known as the Diné, which translates to "The People" in their native language, have a deep connection to their land and heritage. The term Dinétah refers to the traditional homeland of the Navajo, a region imbued with historical and spiritual significance. Naabeehó Bináhásdzo denotes the Navajo Nation’s current geographic entity with its legally defined borders. Diné Bikéyah and Naabeehó Bikéyah both translate to Navajoland, encapsulating the general idea of the Navajo homeland. The name "Navajo" itself is derived from a Tewa word referring to "planted fields," reflecting the agricultural practices of the Navajo people and their connection to the land. While the name is sometimes misspelled as "Navaho," the pronunciation remains the same. "Dine’" is another common name used by the people.
Geographic Location and Traditional Territory
The Navajo Nation is situated in the heart of the American Southwest, a region characterized by its dramatic landscapes and rich cultural history. The Nation spans across portions of Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah, a testament to the historical reach of the Navajo people.
The traditional territory of the Navajo people is anchored by four sacred mountains, each holding a significant place in their cosmology and cultural identity. These mountains, defining the boundaries of their traditional homeland, include Dook’o’oosłííd (San Francisco Peaks), Dibé Ntsaa (Hesperus Mountain), and Sisnaajiní (Mount Taylor). These mountains are not merely geographic markers, but living entities imbued with spiritual power and significance.
Reservation and Governance
The Navajo Nation Reservation, formerly known as the Navajo Reservation, is the heartland of the Navajo people. The name change to Navajo Nation reflects the tribe’s evolution and self-determination. Encompassing 27,425 square miles (71,000 km2), it’s the largest reservation in the United States. The tribal headquarters are located in Window Rock, Arizona, a town named for a prominent sandstone formation that serves as a symbol of the Navajo Nation. The Nation operates on Mountain Time.
The Navajo Nation’s flag, designed by Jay R. Degroat, was officially adopted in 1968. The flag is a visual representation of the Nation’s history, culture, and aspirations. The tan background depicts the outline of the present Nation in copper color, with the original 1868 Treaty Reservation shown in dark brown. The four sacred mountains are positioned at the cardinal points. A rainbow arches over the Nation, symbolizing sovereignty. The flag also features symbols representing the Navajo livestock economy, a traditional hogan and modern home, an oil derrick symbolizing resource potential, and a sawmill representing economic progress.
People and Culture
The Navajo are the largest Native American tribe in the United States, with over 250,000 enrolled members. To be eligible for tribal enrollment, a person must have at least one-quarter Navajo blood quantum.
Tracing Ancestry
For those seeking to trace their Navajo ancestry, several resources are available. The U.S. National Archives and Records Administration and the U.S. Department of the Interior both offer resources for genealogical research. Contacting the Navajo Nation directly may also provide valuable information about ancestral records.
Government and Political Structure
The Navajo Nation government operates under a three-branch system, comprising the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. This sophisticated system of governance reflects the Navajo Nation’s commitment to self-determination and effective leadership.
The Navajo Nation Council, formerly known as the Navajo Tribal Council, serves as the legislative branch. The Council consists of 24 council delegates representing the 110 Navajo Nation chapters. The Council’s legislative work is further divided among 12 standing committees. The executive branch is headed by the President and Vice-President, who are elected every four years.
The Navajo government resisted the establishment of a tribal government under the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 (IRA), rejecting constitutional initiatives in 1935, 1953, and 1963, reflecting a strong desire to maintain self-determination. The Nation reorganized in 1991 to form its current three-branch system.
Language and Education
The Navajo language, Diné bizaad, is a vital part of the Navajo culture and identity. Efforts are underway to preserve and revitalize the language. Resources such as Navajo fonts and dictionaries are available. Many bilingual speakers can converse in both English and Navajo.
The Navajo Nation supports higher education through institutions such as Diné College and Navajo Technical University. Diné College, founded in 1968, was the first tribal college. Navajo Technical University, originally the Navajo Skills Center, focuses on technical training and workforce development.
Media and Communication
The Navajo Nation has its own media outlets, including the Navajo Times, The Navajo Post, and the Navajo-Hopi Observer.
Arts, Culture, and Tourism
The Navajo Nation is rich in cultural attractions and historical sites. The Navajo Nation Museum in Window Rock showcases the tribe’s history, art, and culture. The Navajo Nation Tourism Office promotes tourism and offers information on visiting the Navajo Nation. The annual Navajo Nation Fair is the largest American Indian fair in the United States.
Navajo art and crafts, including weaving, silversmithing, and jewelry making, are renowned worldwide. Navajo blankets are known for their intricate designs and high quality. Navajo silver and turquoise jewelry is also highly sought after.
Catastrophic Events in History
One of the most traumatic events in Navajo history was the Long Walk of 1864, when nearly nine thousand Navajo people were forced to trek over three hundred miles to Fort Sumner, where they were interned at Bosque Redondo for four years. Many died during the journey and imprisonment.
Economy and Resources
Oil was discovered on Navajo lands in the early 1920s, contributing to the Nation’s economy.
Further Exploration
The Navajo Nation is a vibrant and complex society with a rich history, culture, and traditions. Its story is one of resilience, adaptation, and self-determination. Continued learning and engagement with the Navajo Nation are essential for fostering understanding and respect.