Final answer:
The major differences between the Nez Perce and the United States that could not be overcome include conflicts over land, cultural differences, and violent confrontations initiated by some Nez Perce band members.
Step-by-step explanation:
One major difference between the Nez Perce and the United States that could not be overcome was the conflict over land. The United States government took over six million acres of Nez Perce land, pushing them onto smaller reservations and removing them from their homeland.
This loss of land and resources was a significant obstacle to the alliance between the Nez Perce and the United States.
Another major difference was the cultural and societal differences between the Nez Perce and the United States. The United States aimed to assimilate Native tribes into American society, promoting individual land ownership, western education, Christianity, and English as the primary language.
These efforts clashed with the Nez Perce's traditional way of life and spiritual practices. Finally, the actions of some younger Nez Perce band members, who initiated a confrontation that resulted in violence and the killings of several ranchers, led to the pursuit and military retaliation by the United States cavalry.