13. Chief Moses (Sinkiuse-Columbia)
Chief Moses, born Kwiltalahun around 1829, was a prominent leader of the Sinkiuse-Columbia tribe in present-day Washington State (historylink.org). Educated at a Presbyterian mission, he became fluent in multiple languages, including English and Nez Perce. As chief, he navigated increasing conflicts with white settlers, striving to protect his people’s lands. Despite his efforts, the tribe faced forced relocation to the Colville Reservation, where Chief Moses died in 1899.
