American Minute - George Washington and Cherokee & Delaware Indians

American Minute
with Bill Federer

"Beloved Cherokees," wrote President Washington on AUGUST 29, 1796,

"The wise men of the United States meet once a year, to consider what will be for the good of their people...I have thought that a meeting of your wise men...would be alike useful to you...

I now send my best wishes to the Cherokees and pray the Great Spirit to preserve them."

On May 12, 1779, Washington addressed the Delaware Indian Chiefs at the Middle Brook military encampment:

"Brothers: I am glad you have brought three of the Children of your principal Chiefs to be educated with us...Congress...will look upon them as their own Children."

Washington continued:

"This is a great mark of your confidence and of your desire to preserve the friendship between the Two Nations...and to become One people with your Brethren of the United States...

You do well to wish to learn our arts and ways of life, and above all, the religion of Jesus Christ. These will make you a greater and happier people than you are."

Washington concluded:

"Congress will do everything they can to assist you in this wise intention; and to tie the knot of friendship and union so fast, that nothing shall ever be able to loose it...

I pray God He may make your Nation wise and strong."