Copy of document

Instructions from President of United States General George Washington to Governor Blount on late violent inroads by white settlers from the southwestern territory into the Cherokee Nation

In this letter to William Blount, Governor of Southwest Territory, Knox conveys President Washington's concerns about white inroads onto peaceable parts of Cherokee lands. President Washington asks that Blount ensure that white perpetrators be brought to justice. Warns Blount that efforts at peace, moderation and justice will be in vain unless crimes are punished. Treaties will be at an end, and violence and injustice will be the arbiters of all future disputes; will shed innocent blood and depopulate frontiers. Asks Blount to try to pacify those injured and attempt to restore good faith in eyes of Indians. Provides guidance on compensation through David Allison, storekeeper. President's policy is that if war is necessary with Indians, it should be under the auspices of justice, and not on the basis of the wanton blood thirsty disposition of the whites, or any other unjustifiable conduct. Knox asks that Blount continue to communicate with President of United States and notes that nothing would be more satisfactory than peace with Indian tribes founded on humanity and justice.

1793

08

26

War Department

This document is enclosed in a statement relative to the South Western frontiers, as connected with the state of Georgia and Creek Indians, the south Western territory of the United States and the Cherokees submitted to the House of Representatives on December 4, 1793. This document is an integral part of [Public Reports] and other communications of the Secretary of War, 12/99/1793.

William Blount

Henry Knox

President of United States General George Washington

David Allison

Cherokees

Governor of Southwest territory

Tennessee

War Department

Southwest Territory

Tennessee

President Washington's policies with regard to southern tribes

Treaty of New York

1793082600052

501