PERPETUAL PEACE   

The United States began making treaties with the Native Americans as early as 1778. These treaties continued until 1868. One of the notable treaties was made in 1784. This treaty was made with the “Six Nations” and carries that name. The treaty spoke of ‘Perpetual Peace’.

The introduction to the “Six Nation” treaty speaks of in its introduction the following:

The President of the United States having determined to hold a conference with the Six Nations of Indians, for the purpose of removing from their minds all causes of complaint, and establishing a firm and permanent friendship with them.

This treaty language seeks permanent friendship between the United States and the Nation of Indians. The first article within the treaty states,

“Peace and friendship are hereby firmly established, and shall be perpetual, between the United States and the Six Nations.”

As history reveals peace and friendship in perpetuity did not occur. But, what did occur is the forceful removal of the Native Americans from their land.

We should be careful about declaring Peace for history has given us fair warning that it is easier said then done.

Article by CherokeeCloud

Written September 16, 2006