Death Valley's history is far more nuanced than simply asking who "has" it first. The question itself reveals a complex interplay of Indigenous inhabitation, exploration, and ultimately, acquisition by the United States. There's no single answer; instead, understanding its past requires exploring multiple perspectives across millennia.
Indigenous Presence: A Legacy Before "Ownership"
For thousands of years, various Indigenous groups called Death Valley home. The Timbisha Shoshone, also known as the Shoshone people, are the most well-known and have the longest continuous presence in the area. Their deep knowledge of the land's resources and challenges allowed them to thrive in this harsh environment for generations. This pre-dates any concept of territorial ownership as we understand it today. Their relationship with the land was one of stewardship and deep connection, far removed from the modern notions of possession and control.
Evidence of Early Inhabitants:
- Archaeological findings: Numerous archaeological sites within Death Valley reveal evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. These sites provide insights into the tools, lifestyles, and adaptation strategies of early inhabitants.
- Oral histories and traditions: Timbisha Shoshone oral histories and traditions are invaluable in piecing together a rich and complex understanding of their ancestral connection to Death Valley. These narratives provide crucial context often missing from official historical records.
Exploration and Mapping: A European Perspective
European exploration of Death Valley began much later. While precise dates are debated among historians, the area gradually became known to explorers through accounts of hardship and near-death experiences, contributing to its ominous name.
Key Explorers and Their Contributions:
- Early Spanish explorers: While not directly focused on Death Valley, Spanish expeditions in the 18th and 19th centuries gradually expanded knowledge of the region, indirectly contributing to its eventual mapping.
- William Manly and John Rogers: Their 1849 journey through Death Valley, during which they nearly perished, is a frequently cited narrative in popular accounts of the area. However, their story should be viewed within the context of the displacement and hardship imposed on Indigenous populations by westward expansion.
- Later surveys and mapping expeditions: The 19th century saw increasing efforts to map and survey the American West, gradually providing a more detailed understanding of Death Valley's geography.
Acquisition by the United States: The Birth of a National Park
The United States government's acquisition of Death Valley is a complex process rooted in westward expansion and the displacement of Indigenous populations. It was not a simple act of purchase or treaty; rather, it was a consequence of broader land grabs and policies that marginalized Indigenous communities. The establishment of Death Valley National Monument in 1933, and later its designation as a National Park in 1994, represents a culmination of these historical processes.
Conclusion: A Multifaceted History
The question of who "has" Death Valley first lacks a singular, simple answer. The Timbisha Shoshone people hold the longest continuous connection to the land, predating any European exploration or American acquisition. While the United States now manages Death Valley National Park, acknowledging the long history of Indigenous stewardship and recognizing the ongoing rights and cultural connections of the Timbisha Shoshone is crucial to understanding the true history of this iconic location. The narrative is complex and multifaceted, requiring a deeper exploration beyond simplistic claims of ownership.
