Native Americans in the Revolutionary War: Alliance, Resistance, and Post-War Treatment

The Revolutionary War, often remembered as a battle between colonists and the British, also involved a complex alliance of Native American tribes who fought against both parties for their own reasons. It was a period that saw varied and often controversial actions by Native Americans, leading to significant consequences for them well into the future.

Complex Alliances and Motivations

During the Revolutionary War, Native American tribes were not a monolithic group. They fought for both the British and the colonists (Americans), driven by a range of factors. Those who allied with the British did so for various reasons, often under the false promises of Britain and the allure of material support.

For example, some tribes, particularly those in the eastern states like Massachusetts and Maine, aligned with the American revolutionaries. Similarly, for tribes such as the Oneida and Tuscarora, who were part of the Iroquois Confederation, the lure of British guns and gifts was a significant incentive. These tribes hoped that by enlisting against the American rebels, they could halt the encroachment of American settlements on their lands.

Internal Divisions and Conflicts

The American Revolution also caused significant internal divisions within Native American nations. For instance, the Iroquois Confederation, a powerful alliance of several tribes, experienced deep splits. While the Oneida and Tuscarora fought for the Americans, the rest of the Iroquois tribes allied with the British. This division reflected the complex and often conflicting interests among different Native American groups.

Majority Support for the British

Despite some tribes supporting the American cause, the majority of Native American peoples in the region sided with the British. This ranged from around 13,000 to 15,000 native warriors, with significant contributions from tribes such as the Iroquois, Cherokee, Muscogee, and Seminole. These native warriors played a crucial role in the conflict, even helping to establish areas such as the 'Wilderness War on the Ohio.'

Post-War Consequences and Mistreatment

After the Revolutionary War, the treatment of Native Americans became even more contentious. Many of those who had fought for the British were classified as Loyalists and faced retribution. The war left deep scars and significant mistreatment for many Native American tribes. They found themselves caught between two powerful entities, neither of which they fully trusted.

Native Americans faced challenges long before and after the Revolutionary War. They occupied lands coveted by settlers, leading to ongoing conflicts. Despite their contributions during the war, they often had little to show in terms of lasting benefits. Their complex history is often overshadowed by the Euro-American narrative, highlighting the need for a more inclusive and accurate understanding of this period.

Conclusion

The Revolutionary War offers a critical lens through which to view the complex relationship between Native Americans and American settlers. It was a time of alliances, resistance, and ultimately, profound mistreatment. Understanding these dynamics enriches our appreciation of this pivotal period in American history and underscores the need for a more nuanced and inclusive historical narrative.

Further Reading

For a deeper exploration of this topic, consider reading the book 'Wilderness Warfare on the Ohio: Anglo-Indian Collusion and the Chastising of Fort Laurens' by Alex FitzPatrick. This work provides valuable insights into the often-overlooked but crucial role of Native Americans in the Revolutionary War.