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Interpreting the Evidence

Schuyler to the Committee of Tryon County about Indian Affairs, July 4, 1777

Student View

About this Activity

  • Documents in this Activity:
  • Historical Eras:

    Revolution and New Nation (1754 - 1820s)

  • Thinking Skill:

    Historical Analysis & Interpretation

  • Grade Level:

    Middle School
    High School
    College University

  • Topics:

    American Revolution
    Indigenous Peoples of North America

  • Primary Source Types:

    Written Document

  • Regions:

    New York State

  • Creator:

    NYS Archives Partnership Trust Education Team

  1. Load Schuyler to the Committee of Tryon County about Indian Affairs, July 4, 1777 in Main Image Viewer
  2. Load Schuyler to the Committee of Tryon County about Indian Affairs, July 4, 1777 in Main Image Viewer

Suggested Teaching Instructions

Document Description
Letter from Philip Schuyler to the Committee of Tryon County about Indian Affairs, July 4, 1777.
Historical Context
Prior to the American Revolution, Great Britain had adopted a policy of minimal interference with Native American tribes. After the French and Indian War, the British imposed the Proclamation Line of 1763 on the American colonists. This line restricted the colonists from settling west of the Appalachian Mountains, thus minimizing conflicts with Native American groups. Many Native American groups sided with the British during the American Revolution because colonists had repeatedly attempted to settle in Native American territory. The British appeared to be the party more willing to restrict westward movement and preserve the territory of the Native Americans. However, there were some tribes that did side with the Americans.
Essential Question
Why were some Native American tribes willing to help the Americans during the Revolutionary War?
Check for Understanding
Students should be able to answer the essential question using evidence from the document.
Historical Challenges
Locate Cherry Valley and Tryon County on a historical map.
Interdisciplinary Connections
ELA: Write a letter from the point of view of an Indian or an inhabitant describing the feelings of being threatened.
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