what role did the native Americans play during the American revolution
During the American Revolution, Native Americans played various roles depending on their individual tribal allegiances and strategic considerations:
1. Allies: Some Native American tribes formed alliances with the American colonists, offering military support and assistance. For instance, the Oneida and Tuscarora tribes sided with the Patriots, providing troops and intelligence.
2. Neutral: Some Native American tribes chose to remain neutral during the conflict, as they prioritized their own interests and sought to avoid being caught up in the war. The Iroquois Confederacy, for example, remained divided, with some tribes supporting the British and others supporting the Americans.
3. British allies: A number of Native American tribes, including the Mohawk, Seneca, and Cherokee, aligned themselves with the British. These tribes saw the British as a better choice for protecting their territorial interests and maintaining trade relationships.
4. Warfare: Native Americans on both sides engaged in irregular warfare tactics and guerrilla attacks on enemy settlements or supply lines. They often used their knowledge of the terrain and the element of surprise to their advantage.
While Native American tribes played significant roles in the American Revolution, it is crucial to note that the war brought about negative consequences for many indigenous communities. The outcome of the revolution and the subsequent expansion of the United States resulted in the loss of land, destruction of communities, and displacement of Native Americans.