Lecture #2 – Prelude to Power: The Northwest Indian Wars
After its victory in the Revolution, the new American republic embarked on a series of wars that continued its pre-independence expansionist aims at the expense of the native tribes in the Old Northwest. These wars, beginning in earnest in 1785 and ending with the death of Tecumseh at the Battle of the Thames in 1813 involves a series of confused, protracted, and brutal campaigns that drastically changed the territories that now encompass several modern states, as well as the people who inhabited the area. Examining war leaders like Arthur St. Clair, Blue Jacket, William Henry Harrison, Little Turtle, and many others, this lecture will discuss why America pushed for the conquest of these areas, the native leaders who resisted their encroachments and the ultimate fate of their efforts.
All lectures take place at the Rob Morris Chapel, 207 W. Jefferson on the Oldham County History Center campus. $35 per person, includes dinner. Programs are from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Limited seating.