Did nez perce protect miners from other Indian tribes?

Answer 1

The Nez Perce did not primarily protect miners from other Indian tribes; rather, their relationship with miners was complex. While they initially engaged in trade and sometimes cooperated with miners during the gold rush in the mid-19th century, tensions eventually arose over land and resources. The Nez Perce sought to defend their territory and way of life against encroachments, which led to conflicts with settlers and the U.S. government rather than serving as protectors of miners. Ultimately, their struggles were more about protecting their own interests than acting as guardians for miners.