Happy 4th of

“when you don’t tell the truth”

July!

Get it? Juu Lie?

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I was born and raised in California. I have been an enrolled Tribal member and United States citizen my entire life. During that time, I have seen many 4^th of July celebrations. I’ve heard stories of George Washington’s bravery. The colonist’s determination to break free from their British ruler’s control. I remember learning about the declaration of independence and how this country was formed. But most of all, I heard how we always needed to celebrate our American heroes.

One thing I never heard about, were the Natives. I never heard about their contributions to the American Revolution. I never heard about their sacrifices or difficult decisions they made. Nor did I ever hear about how horrible they were treated, after making those sacrifices to fight alongside what would become the United States.

This isn’t very surprising.

The dominant narratives in history have typically been written from the perspective of the victors and the colonial powers. These narratives often marginalized or ignored the contributions and perspectives of Natives.

Lucky for you, we have ‘I know a Native’ newsletter. Where we uncover the facts. Not half truths. Where we explain how Natives played pivotal roles in U.S. history, instead of believing that history just happened to us.

The Iroquois Confederacy, also known as the Haudenosaunee, was a powerful alliance of six Native Tribes in northeastern North America. The member Tribes are the Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca, and Tuscarora. The Confederacy was established to promote peace, cooperation, and mutual defense among its members.

 Once war between the British and the Colonists became an absolute certainty, the Haudenosaunee had to choose a side. They were split on the issue, with different Tribes having different outlooks.

 Four of the Tribes believed that it was far more favorable to remain aligned with British to protect their land from American settlers, as the British had promised to help preserve their territories. They also had strong trade relationships with the British, which provided them with important goods and supplies. Additionally, the Tribes believed that if the colonists won they would continue to grow in size and control.

 However, the Oneida and Tuscarora decided to support the colonists. This support was influenced by their established relationships with the colonists and their hopes that an alliance with the Americans, might lead to better treatment and protection of their lands after the war. These Tribes provided crucial support in various forms, including warriors, scouts, and food supplies, significantly aiding the colonial effort at certain points during the war.

 Battle of Oriskany (1777): One of the bloodiest battles of the Revolutionary War, the Oneida fought alongside the American militia against British and Iroquois forces. Their involvement was pivotal, although the battle itself was indecisive with heavy losses on both sides. The Oneida’s participation marked one of the earliest instances of Natives fighting in support of the colonists.

Battle of Saratoga (1777): This battle is often considered the turning point of the Revolutionary War. Native scouts, including those from the Oneida Tribe, played important roles by providing crucial intelligence and support to the American forces. Their assistance helped in securing a significant victory against the British, which persuaded France to enter the war as an ally of the Americans.

Siege of Fort Stanwix (1777): Also known as the Battle of Fort Schuyler, Native warriors from the Oneida Tribe helped defend this fort against a prolonged siege by British, Loyalist, and Iroquois forces. Their resistance and the eventual relief of the fort were important in maintaining American control in the region and were part of the series of events leading up to the victory at Saratoga.

Battle of Cowpens (1781): Though primarily a battle involving American and British forces, Native Tuscarora forces, particularly scouts and small contingents from various tribes, also contributed to the American strategies and tactics that led to a decisive victory. This battle was crucial in weakening British control over the South.

After the war, many of the promises made to Native allies were broken. The new United States continued to expand westward, leading to the displacement and genocide of Native peoples. This historical context of conflict and betrayal further discouraged the inclusion of Natives in the celebratory narratives of American independence.

The Declaration of Independence does mention Natives, but not in a positive way. In the list of complaints against King George III, the Declaration refers to Native people as "Merciless Indian Savages."

Imagine that. You split up your confederacy and brotherhood of Natives to support the colonists in good faith. Go to war side by side with them. Kill your own former friends and family. Lose thousands of your fellow Native lives. Only to be called a Merciless Indian Savage in the declaration of independence aka United State’s message to the world. Then receive no Valor or Honor and be forced off your homelands.

Every year on the Fourth of July, people in the United States celebrate the decision to become their own country. They have parades, fireworks, and barbecues to remember the brave people who fought in the Revolutionary War and to celebrate the freedom they won.

This 4th of July, let’s remember to celebrate the Oneida and Tuscarora. America’s Forgotten Heroes. I know i will.

As always, If you don’t know now you know, a Native!

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Demonstrate your appreciation by acquiring one of our custom made tee shirts. The Oneida and Tuscarora exhibited remarkable bravery and honor, yet received no acknowledgement as American heroes. Commemorate their legacy and convey your support.

Choose from a wide range of sizes, all priced at an affordable $25.00.

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