The Battle of White Bird Canyon took place on June 17, 1877, during the Nez Perce War. This conflict occurred in Idaho when a group of Nez Perce warriors, led by Chief Joseph, engaged U.S. Army troops. The battle was significant as it marked the beginning of the Nez Perce's resistance against U.S. government policies that forced them onto reservations. The U.S. forces, under the command of Colonel John Gibbon, were caught off guard by the Nez Perce's strategic advantage in the rugged terrain. The battle resulted in a decisive victory for the Nez Perce, allowing them to escape and continue their fight for freedom and land rights.