As a result of the French and Indian War, the Ohio Country and the land around the Great Lakes changed from French to British control in the early 1760s. Indian nations worried that their way of life would be adversely affected by this change, and a charismatic Ottawa chief named Pontiac was determined to prevent this from happening. In late 1762, Pontiac sent emissaries to tribes across the region, challenging them to join his endeavor to drive out the British.

Tom Hand, creator and publisher of Americana Corner, discusses the life of Chief Pontiac and his plan to protect his ancestral lands from the encroachment of British American colonists, and why it still matters today. Read Tom’s blog to learn more.

Photo Credits:
University of Michigan Library
Library of Congress
Encyclopedia Virginia
Cincinnati Art Museum