Shoshone Nation

The Shoshone people are a Native American tribe whose ancestors originated in the western Great Basin and spread north and east into present-day Idaho and Wyoming. By 1500, some Eastern Shoshone had crossed The Rocky Mountains into the plains.

The Shoshone were highly mobile hunter-gatherers who moved seasonally to obtain food and resources. They have sometimes been referred to as the “Snake Indians,” with the meaning of their name being “The Valley People”.

The Shoshone Nation consists of several distinct groups which differ in language, culture, and lifestyle. The Northwestern Band of Shoshone Nation is comprised of descendants from an ancient widespread people whose name is “Newe” meaning “The People.” This band traditionally resided in what is now Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, and Idaho.

In Reno, Nevada there is a colony that was started by Native Americans who worked with local businesses and ranches. This colony was established under the Indian Reorganization Act in 1934.

Today, the Shoshone population is estimated at 8,000 people worldwide who are direct descendants of an ancient civilization that was widespread across North America. The Shoshone have maintained many of their cultural traditions throughout the entire settlement of the United States.