Erastus Granger Digital Library Collection November 22nd, 1812

November 22nd, 1812

Editor's Note: The following is the speech of General Alexander Smythe of the American forces to the Six Nations at the start of the War of 1812, effectively stating that if the Iroquois wished to keep their wives, children and themselves alive - they would not take up arms against the British on the side of the United States. This speech is by turns conciliatory and ominous in tone - and minces no words. The words were also meant to remind the indians of the deprivations suffered by the Mohawks and rogue elements that chose to side with the British during the American Revolutionary War some 30-odd years in the past. Notice how the endearment of 'Brothers' is used by both American and Indian representatives in their official, respective documents to each other.

Speech of General Smyth, one of the
war chiefs of the United States, to the
chiefs and warriors of the Six Nations

Thank you for the tender of your services in defense
of the U.States, which you have made in their name
accept then, in case the troop and indians of the
British King should invade the U.States; which I expect
they will not dare to attempt.

It is the desire of your great father the President that you
should take no part in the war between the U.States and
Great Brittain; but remain at peace, and take care
of your wives and children.

The British nation is not able to maintain the contest
against the U.States on this Great Island, without help.
They ask the indians for help, who have given it, and will
be ruined by doing so. We are able to best the British
without help. And although we understand that you are
willing to help us if we ask it, yet we do not ask it.
The quarrel is ours, and not yours;
and we will fight our own battles.

22nd Nov 1812

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	November 22nd, 1812 Editor's Note: The following is the speech of General Alexander Smythe of the American forces to the Six Nations at the start of the War of 1812, effectively stating that if the Iroquois wished to keep their wives, children and themselves alive - they would not take up arms against the British on the side of the United States. This speech is by turns conciliatory and ominous in tone - and minces no words. The words were also meant to remind the indians of the deprivations suffered by the Mohawks and rogue elements that chose to side with the British during the American Revolutionary War some 30-odd years in the past. Notice how the endearment of 'Brothers' is used by both American and Indian representatives in their official, respective documents to each other.