Native American History Town Destroyer reading

Life-sized bronze sculpture in the National Museum of the American Indian, Washington, D.C.
- Depicts George Washington flanked by Oneida chief Skenandoah and oneida woman Polly Cooper.
- Polly carrying a basket of corn, symbolizing Oneidas' pivotal role during the Revolution.
Washington referred to as "Town Destroyer" by Iroquois due to his troops burning their cornfields.
- Term derived from his great-grandfather.

Washington primarily grew tobacco and wheat, but corn was the dominant crop in North America.
Corn cultivation spread from Mexico to various regions of North America before European contact.
Iroquois agricultural methods:
- Women handled planting after men cleared the fields.
- Utilized the "three sisters" method: planting corn, beans, and squash together for soil health and mutual benefits.
European colonists adopted corn farming due to its higher nutritional value compared to imported grains like wheat and barley.

The Oneida Indians played a crucial role in feeding Washington's army during the winter at Valley Forge.
- They brought stores of dried corn from upstate New York.
Washington recognized the military significance of Indian cornfields to sustain his troops.
Significant reliance of colonists and troops on Native agricultural knowledge.
Efforts were made to win the Iroquois, with Washington promoting goodwill among tribes.

Initial neutrality among the Oneida following the outbreak of the Revolution.
Growing pressure within the tribe caused divisions over whether to align with American forces or remain neutral.
Influential figures like Samuel Kirkland fostered Oneida support for the Patriot cause.
Oneida warriors fought alongside American forces, notably in the victory at Saratoga, which was pivotal in bringing French support.

Washington sought alliances with Iroquois factions while simultaneously planning to retaliate against tribes that sided with the British.
Recognized the importance of maintaining Iroquois neutrality amidst rising tensions.
Emphasized establishing a strong show of force to counter British propaganda and ensure Indian support for American goals.

Sullivan's Campaign in 1779 aimed to "total destruction and devastation" of Iroquois settlements to deter future warfare.
- Planning focused on destroying crops and food supplies, particularly corn fields.
Tactics employed by American forces mirrored earlier colonial campaigns against Native nations.
Campaign led to severe devastation, insignificantly changing the balance between Native and colonial forces.
Iroquois response solidified their determination to continue fighting.

Despite their support for the American cause, Oneidas suffered significant losses, becoming targets for both British and rival Iroquois attacks.
Resources dwindled as the Oneidas faced starvation amidst rising tensions with other tribes.
- Washington’s assistance proved limited, relying on provincial aid.
Oneida warriors participated in the surrender of the British at Yorktown.
Post-war, the Oneidas sought compensation for their losses, highlighting their sacrifices for the cause of independence.