K'aayelii facts for kids
Hastii K'aayélii (which means One With Quiver) was an important leader of the Diné people. He was born around 1801 and lived until 1894. He is remembered for his strong leadership and for helping his people avoid a very difficult time in history.
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Who Was Hastii K'aayélii?
Hastii K'aayélii was born around 1801. His birthplace was in an area called Elk Ridge, which is north of a special place known as Bears Ears. He was born near a spring at the start of a canyon. Both the spring and the canyon were later named after him, though the spelling changed a bit to "Kigalia."
A Leader of the Diné
K'aayélii became one of the main leaders, or "headmen," for his people who lived north of the San Juan River. He and his followers traveled and lived across a wide area. This included places like the Henry Mountains, the La Sal Mountains, the Uncompaghre Plateau in Colorado, Allen Canyon, the Abajo Mountains, and Bears Ears.
Like another famous leader named Hashkeneinii, K'aayélii had to move his people to the Bears Ears area to avoid conflicts with the Utes.
Avoiding the Long Walk
One of the most important things about K'aayélii and his followers is that they never gave up their freedom. They managed to avoid the Long Walk. This was a very sad and difficult time when the United States government forced many Navajo people to leave their homes and march a long distance to new lands. K'aayélii's group stayed strong and found ways to remain in their traditional lands, never surrendering.
Later Life and Legacy
Hastii K'aayélii passed away in 1894 near Montezuma Creek in Utah, and he was buried there.
His family and descendants have continued to honor his memory. Later, one of his descendants, Jack Jones, tried to get back some of their family's historical land rights. However, the Department of the Interior, which manages public lands, said no. In 1961, K'aayélii's descendants in Utah also tried to get more land for grazing their animals, but the courts did not allow it.
Hastii K'aayélii's story is an important part of Navajo history, showing the strength and determination of his people.
