History :

Isleta has had a troubled history. When he Pueblo Revolt began, many of the members fled to Hopi settlementts in Arizona. While a number of Isleta people accompanied the Spanish in their retreat to El Paso del Norte.

Afrer the rebellion was brought under control, the Isleta people returned to their former homes, some bringing Hopi mates. When some members of Laguna Pueblo and the Acoma Pueblo joined the Isleta community in the eighteen hundreds, friction within the society let to internal disagreement over religious and ritual matters. The solution to this resulted in the creation of the satellite settlement of Oraibi.

The pueblo today is comprised of two small communities Oraibi and Chicale, and the main pueblo, Isleta. The language is generally Tiwa, with most people speaking English as well.

Agriculture is the principal occupation of the Isleta people. Additonal revenue is derived from the land leased to local business concerns and to the United States Government.

A high proportion of the population works outside the reservation, but a recent revival of pottery and jewerly making is giving work to a number or artisans. Isleta is also known for its excellent bread.